Models of Social Cohesion for Managing Conflicts over Agro-Pastoral Resources: The Case of North Benin

Increased use of forest resources to meet increasing world demand for wood and other forest products threatens forest sustainability and highlights the importance of conservation and sustainable management of these resources. Maintaining well-adapted and productive forests, and conserving natural forest genetic resources are important for sustainable forest management. Over exploitation of species can lead to excessive forest fragmentation and reduction of population sizes to a point that threatens population viability and species existence. In many cases, restoration of genetic resources of threatened species is needed. Molecular genetic markers, combined with population genetic principles and concepts, can greatly facilitate programs in conservation, restoration and sustainable management of forest genetic resources. We have used various biochemical and molecular genetic markers, such as allozymes, microsatellite DNA, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and sequence-tagged site markers, to examine effects of alternative silvicultural harvesting and regeneration systems, and forest fragmentation and small population size on genetic diversity, fine-scale population genetic structure, mating system and other population genetic parameters in white spruce (Picea glauca), eastern white pine (Pinus strobus), and red spruce (Picea rubens). The objectives of our studies are to provide genetic benchmarks and indicators for developing guidelines for genetically sustainable forest management practices and scientifically sound strategies for conservation and restoration of forest genetic resources. The results of these studies are discussed, particularly in the context of sustainable management, conservation and restoration of forest genetic resources.

Benin like many other West African countries has its economy mainly based on agriculture and livestock. These activities development depend heavily on natural resources in these countries. In the extreme northern part of Benin in Karimama district, farmers and pastoralists are constrained by the presence of the W park and the Niger river that occupy most of the grazing and arable lands. In order to sustainably manage these resources, the district and the W park management authorities decided to set up these resources’ management plans. This study investigated the involvement of farmers and pastoralists in the elaboration and implementation of the agro-pastoral resources management plans for their sustainable use. Therefore, 40 farmers and 40 pastoralists randomly selected in two villages of the Karimama district and several authorities were surveyed. Results show that both farmers and pastoralists recognized that Karimama district still has agro-pastoral resources for farming and livestock. However, they mostly stressed that they were not sufficiently involved neither in the elaboration nor in the implementation of their management plans. They also perceived negatively the plans set up because according to them beside their low implication, the facilities necessary for a good management of the buffer zones of the park and the Birds Island are not put in place, they are still unfairly arrested and fined and the areas delimitated for their activities is insufficient for them. The study concludes that the main challenge in the elaboration and implementation of agro-pastoral resources management plans is the genuine involvement of the different stakeholder categories in the process.

The management of natural resources has become a crucial agenda item at the community level of every country, due to the importance of a community’s direct involvement in the stewardship of these resources. The sustainable management of natural resources is not easy without the involvement of the community. To know the attitudes of residents in the communities in close proximity to Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) towards natural resource sustainable management policy, a study of CKNP in northern Pakistan was conducted. This is the first community study for this park. It is difficult to overstate the economic and geographic importance of this national resource to the Pakistani people at local and national levels, as well as at the international level. This is the world’s highest public park; as a natural resource it is not only important to the local community, it also has great relevance internationally. The study attempted to gauge the attitudes of the local community towards the sustainable management practices of CKNP. The results of this study showed generally positive attitudes towards the park. The majority of respondents revealed that the park’s primary appeal is its geographic location. Households were afraid that pollution in the park will gradually destroy the park’s natural resources. For sustainable management of the CKNP, community members expressed willingness to contribute to the betterment of park through volunteerism. Community members praised the government’s supportive actions, including budgetary support and public-awareness campaigns. As such, the positive attitude of the community towards the CKNP also revealed new insights for the community-centered sustainable management of natural resources in developing countries. This study also provides a research gap for future work relating to the sustainable management of community-based natural resources to consider more factors beside the factors used in this study.

According to IISD (International Institute for Sustainable Development) “sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’’. However, many organizations focus on short-term profits while the contribution of human resource management towards sustainable development is pushed to the margins. Intensive labour practices, poor working conditions and poor work systems in Kenya are some of the issues that have been found not to contribute towards sustainability in organizations and in keeping with the 8th sustainable development goal of Promoting “sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”. Lack of focus on sustainable human resource management practices will make it difficult for Kenya to achieve Vision 2030 as well as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-goals). Sustainable Human Resource management focuses on managing the people resources in an organization so as to achieve long-term sustainable goals that not only benefit the organization but also the society and the environment at large. This Paper is a literature review and analysis on sustainable Human Resource Management and its benefits to the employees, their families and society at large by exploring sustainable HR practices, sustainable work systems and sustainable resource management that also provide for the sustainable performance of organizations in keeping with the need for corporate sustainability. The paper also explores reporting on sustainable HRM practices as part of corporate sustainability reporting in Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed firms

The ecosystem approach—as endorsed by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CDB) in 2000—is a strategy for holistic, sustainable, and equitable natural resource management, to be implemented via the 12 Malawi Principles. These principles describe the need to manage nature in terms of dynamic ecosystems, while fully engaging with local peoples. It is an ambitious concept. Today, the term is common throughout the research and policy literature on environmental management. However, multiple meanings have been attached to the term, resulting in confusion. We reviewed references to the ecosystem approach from 1957 to 2012 and identified 3 primary uses: as an alternative to ecosystem management or ecosystem-based management; in reference to an integrated and equitable approach to resource management as per the CBD; and as a term signifying a focus on understanding and valuing ecosystem services. Although uses of this term and its variants may overlap in meaning, typically, they do not entirely reflect the ethos of the ecosystem approach as defined by the CBD. For example, there is presently an increasing emphasis on ecosystem services, but focusing on these alone does not promote decentralization of management or use of all forms of knowledge, both of which are integral to the CBD’s concept. We highlight that the Malawi Principles are at risk of being forgotten. To better understand these principles, more effort to implement them is required. Such efforts should be evaluated, ideally with comparative approaches, before allowing the CBD’s concept of holistic and socially engaged management to be abandoned or superseded. It is possible that attempts to implement all 12 principles together will face many challenges, but they may also offer a unique way to promote holistic and equitable governance of natural resources. Therefore, we believe that the CBD’s concept of the ecosystem approach demands more attention.La Necesidad de Desenredar Conceptos Clave del Argot Ambiente-EstrategiaResumenLa estrategia ambiental – como es promocionada por la Convención Biológica sobre Diversidad en 2000 – es una estrategia para un manejo holístico, sustentable y equitativo de recursos naturales, que habrá de implementarse por vía de los 12 Principios de Malawi. Estos principios describen la necesidad de manejar la naturaleza en términos de ecosistemas dinámicos, mientras se compromete totalmente con las personas locales. Es un concepto ambicioso. Hoy en día, el término es común en la investigación y la literatura de políticas sobre el manejo ambiente. Sin embargo, se han relacionado múltiples significados con el término, lo que resulta en confusión. Revisamos referencias a la estrategia ambiental de 1957 a 2012 e identificamos tres usos principales: como una alternativa para manejo ambiental o basado en ecosistemas; en referencia a una estrategia integrada y equitativa para el manejo de recursos según la CBD; y como un término que indica un enfoque en el entendimiento y la valuación de los servicios ambientales. Aunque los usos de este término y sus variantes pueden traslaparse en su significado, típicamente no reflejan en su totalidad los valores de la estrategia ambiental como fue definida por la CBD. Por ejemplo, actualmente hay un énfasis creciente en los servicios ambientales, pero enfocarse solamente en estos no promueve la descentralización del manejo o el uso de todas las formas de conocimiento, siendo ambas integrales para el concepto de la CBD. Resaltamos que los Principios de Malawi están en riesgo de ser olvidados. Para entender mejor estos principios, se requiere de más esfuerzo para implementarlos. Dichos esfuerzos deben ser evaluados, idóneamente con estrategias comparativas, antes de permitir que el concepto de la CBD de manejo holístico y comprometido socialmente sea abandonado o reemplazado. Es posible que los intentos por implementar los 12 principios juntos enfrentarán muchos obstáculos, pero también pueden ofrecer una forma única de promover el gobierno holístico y equitativo de los recursos naturales. Así, creemos que el concepto de estrategia ambiental de la CBD exige mayor atención.

Sustainable resource management involve managing resources in a way that their sources are not depleted; so that the future generations can also benefit from it. Africa is endowed with diverse and abundant natural resources and stands at a critical juncture where responsible and sustainable management of these resources is paramount for the continent’s development. The Kenyan governments (national-level and county-level) recognize the need for sustainable resource management for the good of the citizens. In devolved government units in Kenya, sustainable resource management is critical. This study sought to assess the dynamics of accountability on sustainable resource management in county government of Kericho, Kenya. The study was guided by Resource-based view theory, administrative theory, transformational leadership theory and the theory of Planned Behaviour. This study adopted a pragmatism approach that took a practical and flexible approach, focusing on the usefulness and applicability of research findings, rather than an all-or-nothing, mutually exclusive philosophical position. A descriptive research design with a mixed method of quantitative and qualitative data collections was adopted. The target population of the study comprised a total of 213 senior, middle and lower level management staff of the county government of Kericho. The Stratified random sampling was used to develop a sample from different management groups. A sample of 139 management staff was selected using Slovin’s formula. Reliability of the study was ensured by conducting a pilot study in the neighbouring County Government of Nakuru while context, content and criterion validity were ascertained by the researcher in the field of study. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics which described the nature of ethical leadership and sustainable resource management. Inferential statistics (Pearson’s correlation and regression analysis) were used to determine the nature of influence between the variables. This was done with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Qualitative data was analysed by themes and content analysis. The study findings revealed that accountability had a statistically significant influence on sustainable resource management. The study concluded that there exists a strong and significant relationship between accountability (r=0.940 and p=0.000) and sustainable resource management in Kericho County, Kenya. The study recommends that accountability in record management, auditing and procurement processes should be promoted as a way of promoting sustainable resource management in county governance.

In an era where technological advancements are reshaping the landscape of resource management, this paper delves into the transformative role of predictive analytics in the exploration and management of geological resources in the United States. The study's backdrop is set against the burgeoning need for innovative approaches in geological exploration, driven by environmental, economic, and technological imperatives. The primary aim of this comprehensive review is to dissect the multifaceted contributions of predictive analytics in enhancing the efficiency, accuracy and sustainability of geological resource exploration. The scope of the paper encompasses a detailed examination of the integration of predictive analytics in geological exploration, focusing on its economic benefits, environmental sustainability implications and adherence to legal and ethical standards. Methodologically, the study employs a qualitative analysis of existing literature and case studies, juxtaposing traditional exploration methods with modern predictive analytic techniques. It further investigates the economic impact of predictive analytics implementation, the role of predictive models in identifying new geological resources and the strategic implications for sustainable resource management. The findings reveal that predictive analytics significantly enhances risk assessment, resource identification, and environmental management in geological exploration. The economic analysis underscores the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of predictive analytics, while strategic implications highlight the need for an integrated approach to sustainable resource management. Conclusively, the study recommends policy reforms and regulatory frameworks that align with technological advancements to ensure sustainable and prosperous geological resource management. It advocates for embracing advanced tools to navigate the complexities of resource exploration and management, ensuring a balance between economic viability and environmental sustainability.
 Keywords: Predictive Analytics, Geological Exploration, Resource Management, Sustainability, Technological Advancements, Policy Reforms.

The chapter consists of three parts: Family Firms, Sustainable Human Resource Management, and Pathways to Family Firms. First, we discuss the importance of family firms and the theoretical perspective of family science theories. Secondly, the author explores the emerging concept of sustainable human resource management (SHRM) and introduces pathways to sustainable futures. What is sustainability, and how was it integrated into HRM? It draws on the wider literature on Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM), Sustainable Resource Management (SRM), and organizational theory to offer insights into the relationship between sustainability and HRM. The key issue addressed is the balancing act between short-term economic efficiency and long-term sustainability in managing human resources. Last but not least, we discuss the pathways to family firms and how family firm sustainable practices contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.

ABSTRACTThe driving forces behind natural resource management (NRM) vary among countries. Most NRM programmes focus on biophysical drivers such as soil, water and vegetation, with little attention directed towards the nuanced sociocultural and religious drivers of sustainable natural resource management (SNRM) practices. This paper explores those understudied drivers that influence local people’s participation (LPP) in SNRM in Isfahan, Iran. Using a multi-stage stratified sampling method, we selected 200 natural resource experts and natural resource users to complete a questionnaire about their perceptions of SNRM. Results reveal that sociocultural and religious beliefs are the major drivers of SNRM. The results also indicate that subsidiary drivers include: a sense of responsibility towards SNRM; the conviction that natural resources belong to God and should therefore be preserved; participation to preserve natural resources because of training courses and media influence; a long-established custom of preserving natural resources; and the specific impact of environmental television programmes. Demographic analysis finds a significant relationship between educational level and LPP in SNRM. This study’s results therefore suggest that natural resource managers would benefit from a deeper understanding of the local sociocultural and religious contexts that motivate people to participate in SNRM.

Recent progress on innovative urban infrastructures system towards sustainable resource management

Sustainable resource management involve managing resources in a way that their sources are not depleted; so that the future generations can also benefit from it. Africa is endowed with diverse and abundant natural resources and stands at a critical juncture where responsible and sustainable management of these resources is paramount for the continent's development. The Kenyan governments (national-level and county-level) recognize the need for sustainable resource management for the good of the citizens. In devolved government units in Kenya, sustainable resource management is a critical. This study sought to assess the dynamics of public participation on sustainable resource management in county government of Kericho, Kenya. The study was guided by Resource-based view theory, administrative theory, transformational leadership theory and the theory of Planned Behaviour. This study adopted a pragmatism approach that took a practical and flexible approach, focusing on the usefulness and applicability of research findings, rather than an all-or-nothing, mutually exclusive philosophical position. A descriptive research design with a mixed method of quantitative and qualitative data collections was adopted. The target population of the study comprised a total of 213 senior, middle and lower level management staff of the county government of Kericho. The Stratified random sampling was used to develop a sample from different management groups. A sample of 139 management staff was selected using Slovin’s formula. Reliability of the study was ensured by conducting a pilot study in the neighbouring County Government of Nakuru while context, content and criterion validity were ascertained by the researcher in the field of study. Quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics which described the nature of ethical leadership and sustainable resource management. Inferential statistics (Pearson’s correlation and regression analysis) were used to determine the nature of influence between the variables. This was done with the help of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Qualitative data was analysed by themes and content analysis. The study findings revealed that, public participation had a statistically significant influence on sustainable resource management. The study concluded that there exists a strong and significant relationship between public participation (r=0.832 and p=0.000) and sustainable resource management in Kericho County, Kenya. The study recommends that in order to enhance public participation members of the public should be empowered by giving the information and documents containing information on development activities and legislations that require their input in advance so that they know and understand what they are coming to do in public forums.

The transformation of sustainable management and governance for a natural resource can be organized as social learning involving all types of social workers like experts, political leaders, scientist, and local actors and their corresponding scientific and nonscientific knowledge require all new spaces of communicative share sustainable natural resource make novel demand on governance arrangement governance make some principle for diverse contexts and they are availability for sustainable natural resource. The principle can be directly used to design government institutions that are legitimate and transparent, inclusive and fair. The main areas highlight a natural resource that ensures sustainable development. Perspective on the rules and perspectives of our society to promote sustainable development and Environmental Protection. The environmental impact of the assessment system planes with human activities and preventing damage to the environment. This paper analysis of analyzes the sustainable management and governance of natural resources. It provides raw materials and space for social production but serves the needs of human life. It recognizes in that people and their livelihoods rely on the health production of our landscape and play critical roles in maintaining their wealth and productivity. For improving natural resources, securing rights, and sharing power and responsibility for understanding, accessing, and improving natural resource governments including all sharing power and responsibilities. To understand accessing improving natural resources government the realize that values and conserve nature. The extent to which the sustainable management of natural resources is being achieved Looking at human management and environment, land use, population, and waste management resource efficiency.

The transformation of sustainable management and governance for a natural resource can be organized as social learning involving all types of social workers like experts, political leaders, scientist, and local actors and their corresponding scientific and nonscientific knowledge require all new spaces of communicative share sustainable natural resource make novel demand on governance arrangement governance make some principle for diverse contexts and they are availability for sustainable natural resource. The principle can be directly used to design government institutions that are legitimate and transparent, inclusive and fair. The main areas highlight a natural resource that ensures sustainable development. Perspective on the rules and perspectives of our society to promote sustainable development and Environmental Protection. The environmental impact of the assessment system planes with human activities and preventing damage to the environment. This paper analysis of analyzes the sustainable management and governance of natural resources. It provides raw materials and space for social production but serves the needs of human life. It recognizes in that people and their livelihoods rely on the health production of our landscape and play critical roles in maintaining their wealth and productivity. For improving natural resources, securing rights, and sharing power and responsibility for understanding, accessing, and improving natural resource governments including all sharing power and responsibilities. To understand accessing improving natural resources government the realize that values and conserve nature. The extent to which the sustainable management of natural resources is being achieved Looking at human management and environment, land use, population, and waste management resource efficiency.

This paper aimed at studying the effect of traditional knowledge system in sustainable development and management of natural resources in Meru community. The study was guided by the following questions: What is the role of indigenous system in the protection and conservation of natural resources in Meru community? What is the role of integrated environmental management frame work in the sustainable development and management of natural resources in Meru community? What is the relationship between participatory decision making, policy maker’s implementation and natural resources users in Meru community? The research was conducted in Meru and Tharaka Nithi Counties and through purposeful sampling had two case studies from each county in Meru community. Data was collected using guided interviews and semi structured questions. The data was collected through a focus group discussion, documents and audio-visual materials. The study reviewed the literature to understand the effect of traditional knowledge system in sustainable development and management of natural resources in Meru community. Theoretical insights and empirical findings from the studies suggest that despite the generalized worldwide trend of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) erosion, substantial pockets of TEK persist in both developing and developed countries. The findings also reinforce previous hypotheses pointing at the importance of TEK systems as reservoirs of experiential knowledge that can provide important insights for the design of adaptation and mitigation strategies to cope with global environmental change in the management of natural resources. Recognition of endogenous management of Indigenous knowledge becomes an enhancing solution to the seemingly mega challenges of community development. Indigenous knowledge is a more secure foundation for sustainable solutions to challenges in developmental issues in communities and in Africa. Advanced technology in Indigenous knowledge (IK) usage and preservation empowers users to improve on pre-existing solutions to a problem, achieve a goal, and most of all improve on the standards of living. Keywords: Traditional knowledge System, development and management, Natural Resources, Meru community

This study examines the management of the Widow Forest (Kaombo Ohusii) in Takimpo Village, Buton Regency, as an example of local community participation in sustainable natural resource management. The research highlights the role of gendered forest management, particularly the involvement of widows, and the function of development communication in integrating local wisdom into environmental governance. This study aims to analyze how the Sarano Kampo customary institution, led by Parabela, shapes forest management strategies and how the philosophy of pobhinci-bhinciki kuli, emphasizing mutual respect and responsibility, influences conservation practices. A qualitative approach was employed, using in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis to explore the social and environmental dimensions of forest governance. Findings show that the Sarano Kampo institution enforces customary regulations, including a rotation system and strict resource use restrictions, ensuring sustainability. The involvement of widows and impoverished women in forest maintenance is not merely symbolic but represents a deliberate effort toward equity in resource distribution. However, participation levels vary across community groups, necessitating efforts to enhance inclusivity. This research underscores the significance of integrating cultural values, gender inclusivity, and communication strategies into sustainable resource management. By bridging local wisdom with broader sustainability goals, this study provides insights for strengthening community-driven conservation efforts. Keywords: Cultural values, community participation, forest management, local wisdom, sustainable resource management.