Abstract
The literature on common pool resource (CPR) governance lists numerous factors that influence whether a given CPR system achieves ecological long-term sustainability. Up to now there is no comprehensive model to integrate these factors or to explain success within or across cases and sectors. Difficulties include the absence of large-N studies, the incomparability of single case studies, and the interdependence of factors. We propose (1) a synthesis of 24 success factors based on the current social-ecological systems (SES) framework and a literature review and (2) the application of neural networks on a database of CPR management case studies in an attempt to test the viability of this synthesis. This method allows us to obtain an implicit quantitative and rather precise model of the interdependencies in CPR systems. Given such a model, every success factor in each case can be manipulated separately, yielding different predictions for success. This could become a fast and inexpensive way to analyze, predict, and optimize performance for communities worldwide facing CPR challenges. Existing theoretical frameworks could be improved as well.
Highlights
Motivation Common pool resource (CPR) problems are ubiquitous
Neural networks with hidden layers of about 2/3 * 24 neurons performed better than others most of the time, short training phases with a maximum of 150 lesson repetitions resulted in better predictions, and one particular data split outperformed the others, i.e., a split that made sure that no system in the test set had been subject to interventions from third parties such as NGOs or the Nepali Department of Irrigation
The methodology exemplified might be able to cope with the real-life complexity of common pool resource (CPR) problems
Summary
Motivation Common pool resource (CPR) problems are ubiquitous. Considering the impact of climate change, the handling of such problems becomes even more important. There are many kinds of different CPR problems. A comprehensive overview can be found in Hess (2008). Our analysis is restricted to traditional commons: land use, forest management, irrigation, and fisheries. The central questions are: Why do some communities fail while others thrive? Efficiency, and justice be achieved in managing CPRs? The central questions are: Why do some communities fail while others thrive? How can sustainability, efficiency, and justice be achieved in managing CPRs?
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
