Natural Resource Management Research Articles

Determination of Singular Control in the Optimal Management of Natural Resources

A method is presented to simplify the determination of solutions of certain optimal control problems which commonly arise in natural resource management and bioeconomic contexts. The method, termed the resource-value balance method, essentially leverages an equivalent formulation of the original optimal control problem and, as described, in certain cases the method obviates the need for classical tools from optimal control theory, such as the Pontryagin Principle. Indeed, in these cases the method reduces the original problem to one solvable with elementary calculus techniques. Further, the solution provided by the resource-value balance method is shown to equal the singular solution of an associated (and more commonly considered) input-constrained optimal control problem, providing insight into the nature of singular control in this context. The theory is illustrated with examples from bioeconomics.

Pathways to farmer-pastoralist-conservationist conflict resolution for sustainable natural resource management along the black volta river corridor in northern Ghana

Pathways to farmer-pastoralist-conservationist conflict resolution for sustainable natural resource management along the black volta river corridor in northern Ghana

Claims on natural resources: the role of political power and rights of commons in pre-colonial Assam, India

ABSTRACT The lush green forests, sparkling rivers, and wildlife of Assam have always been the pride of its people. However, the history of natural resource management in this region has been riddled with power struggles and conflicting claims. During the pre-British era, the Ahom state displayed remarkable expertise in harnessing natural resources and it remained committed to its focus on effectively managing and utilizing natural resources to guarantee a steady flow of revenue. This study explores the role of political power in shaping the claims and distribution of natural resources in pre-colonial Assam, revealing how the Ahom state, in particular, used their power to control and exploit natural resources and how the local communities struggled to negotiate their claims and protect their way of life. This paper also strives to undertake a more intricate investigation to challenge the concept of prudent use of natural resources in the pre-colonial era of Indian history.

Do foreign direct investment and trade openness matter for environmental sustainability in Vietnam? Evidence from time–frequency analysis

Effective management of natural resources is not merely a choice but a critical responsibility for ensuring sustainability for future generations. This issue attracts significant attention from governments, regulatory agencies, environmental researchers, and the public. This study investigates the impact of key macroeconomic factors on natural resources in Vietnam and explores the lessons derived from these impacts. Utilizing Wavelet tools for the period from 1985 to 2021, the findings are summarized as: (i) Foreign direct investment (FDI) plays a vital role in diminishing Vietnam’s economic reliance on natural resources; (ii) Trade openness exhibits a negative correlation with natural resource availability; (iii) Promoting economic growth may impede the regeneration of biocapacity. Based on the findings, we recommend that the Government strengthen public oversight and enhance local government monitoring during the operational phases of FDI ventures. Additionally, Vietnam should consider reducing the export of raw materials to preserve its natural resources for the benefit of future generations.

Management Practice of the Tributaries (Saka) of Kahayan River Based on Traditional Knowledge by the Community in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia

ABSTRACTFishermen in the tributaries of the Kahayan River in Tumbang Nusa village, Central Kalimantan, Indonesia have long been known to implement community‐based natural resource management (CBNRM). This paper is an outcome of a study of this community‐based management style. Data was collected through in‐depth interviews with informants (village heads, customary heads, fishermen, village communities, group leaders, and village facilitator), focus group discussions (FGDs), field observations, and a literature review. The tributaries are a fertile breeding ground for various fish species and hence are a main source of livelihood for the households living in the vicinity. The tributaries were originally owned individually, but as family members grew, the ownership became collective based on lineage (family group). Thus, a fisherman can access one or more tributaries depending on their inheritance rights. Therefore, the tributaries have emerged as a source of economic survival, and the study suggests the government introduce relevant laws and rules to protect this fragile ecosystem.

Financial development and natural resources: Does information technology moderate for financial resource blessing?

Abstract The study investigates the nexus between natural resources rents (TNRR), Information and communication technology (ICTE), economic growth (EGT), institutional quality (IQ) and financial development (FD) in Malaysia, using quarterly data from 2001Q1 to 2020Q4. Motivated by the critical role of natural resources management, digital information, and institutional strength in promoting financial sector development in Malaysian economy, this study seeks to expose the interplay between these variables. Fourier unit root tests were utilized to determine the order to integration among the variables, revealing a unique order of integration. The RALS-FARDL cointegration approach confirmed the presence of long-run nexus, which was further validated by the Bayer-Hanck combined cointegration test. To estimate the long-run elasticity, DOLS methodology was employed, identifying a resource curse for the financial sector in Malaysia. The results demonstrate that ICTE positively affects FD. Moreover, higher IQ enhances and strengthens the financial sector. Further, the positive influence of the combined effect of ICTE and natural resources further confirms that ICTE positively moderates the association between TNRR and FD. Causality analysis confirmed bidirectional causal interaction between FD and economic growth, supporting the feed-back hypothesis. The study highlights several crucial policy implications. The Malaysian government should prioritize diversifying investment beyond natural resources and reinforce the use of ICTE for conserving natural resources in such a way to leverage the financial sector. By fostering an institutional framework and investing in ICTE, Malaysia can achieve sustainable economic growth in the long-run.

Dataset on nematode assemblages of different ecosystems in Del Agua National Park, Costa Rica.

Dataset on nematode assemblages of different ecosystems in Del Agua National Park, Costa Rica.

Climate-Induced Range Shift and Risk Assessment of Emerging Weeds in Queensland, Australia.

Anticipation and identification of new invasive alien species likely to establish, spread and be impactful in a landscape, especially in response to climate change, are consistently a top priority of natural resource managers. Using available global bioclimatic variables limiting plant distributions, we employed maximum entropy (MaxEnt) as a correlative species distribution model to predict the current and future (2041-2060 and 2061-2080) distribution for 54 emerging weed species of different growth forms for the State of Queensland, Australia. Overall, the model predictive performance was excellent, with area under the curve (AUC) and the true skill statistic (TSS) averaging 0.90 and 0.67, respectively. Based on distribution records, the emerging weed species sorted out along environmental (climatic) space-with trees and succulents, each at the two ends of the continuum, while grasses, herbs and shrubs were distributed between the two extremes. Temperature seasonality and minimum temperature of the coldest month were the main driver variables that accounted for differences in climatic preference among the focal species and/or plant growth forms. Range shifts were predicted for many species in response to climate change; overall, habitat range increase will occur more often than range contraction and especially more so in trees compared to all other plant growth forms. Range stability was least in succulent weeds. In general, under climate change, the majority of the invasion hotspot area was projected to remain geographically stable (76.95%). Far northern Queensland (especially the Gulf of Carpentaria and Cape York Peninsula areas) and the coastal communities along the eastern seaboards of the State are the hotspots for emerging invasive alien species to establish and expand/contract in response to climate change. Based on observed and potential ranges, as well as species response to climate change, we derived an index of risk and hence statewide prioritisation watch list for management and policy of the emerging weeds of Queensland.

Farmers' Coping Strategy in Maintaining Household Economic Stability in the Dry Season: A Sharia Economic Perspective

This study analyzes the coping strategies employed by farmers in Rombiya Barat Village, Ganding, to maintain household economic stability during the dry season from an Islamic economic perspective. Employing a qualitative approach, this research utilizes in-depth interviews with selected farmers through purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using a thematic approach to identify key survival strategies. The findings reveal three primary coping strategies: active strategies, passive strategies, and networking strategies. From an Islamic economic perspective, business diversification that adheres to the principles of halal and thayyib plays a crucial role in sustaining farmers’ economic resilience. Furthermore, the study highlights that food security among farmers is significantly influenced by socioeconomic conditions, natural resource management, and the practical implementation of Islamic economic principles. This research contributes to the understanding of Islamic economic-based rural resilience and offers policy insights for enhancing sustainable agricultural development.

Sustentabilidade Ambiental Global através de Governança

Concern for global environmental sustainability has motivated several policies for natural resource management and environmental protection. However, the effectiveness, scope and legitimacy of these policies in global environmental governance are questionable, given the overcoming of the concept of the nation-state. This involves analyzing the formulation and execution of governance strategies, the representation and involvement of different stakeholders, and the challenges in implementing transnational environmental policies. The ability of governance structures to respond to the needs and voices of diverse groups, including those from less developed or marginalized regions, is also questioned. The importance of global institutional mechanisms, inclusive participation, and holistic approaches to overcome gaps and promote accountability, transparency and collaborative action is highlighted. The bibliographic research was conducted using the deductive method approach.

‘Kaombo Ohusii’ as a Means of Development Communication: Uncovering Widow Forest Management Practices in Buton District, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia

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.

Landscape assessment - a comprehensive approach to conservation on Phu Quoc island, Vietnam

This study delves into the theoretical foundations of landscape science, examining its intrinsic relationship with natural resource management and conservation efforts. It underscores the role of the landscape as a fundamental unit of analysis and intervention, formed through the dynamic interaction of geographical, climatic, and ecological factors. However, in recent decades, landscapes have undergone profound transformations, driven by both natural environmental changes and intensified human activities. These changes have significantly impacted landscape quality, posing substantial risks to ecological integrity and cultural heritage. Phu Quoc Island, the largest island located in the Gulf of Thailand, exemplifies these challenges as it experiences rapid urbanization and economic development. Such processes have led to the degradation of both natural and cultural landscapes, heightening the urgency for comprehensive conservation strategies. In this context, a weighted comprehensive evaluation method was employed to classify and assess the landscape units across Phu Quoc Island using a robust set of 16 criteria. The findings of the study reveal notable spatial disparities in conservation levels. Certain areas, due to their exceptional biodiversity and ecological value, require stringent protection measures to mitigate the risks of degradation. Conversely, other areas, which exhibit medium to low conservation levels, reflect the consequences of ongoing human-induced activities and developmental pressures. To address these findings, the study presents a detailed spatial distribution of conservation levels, providing a clear and systematic framework for identifying priority areas for intervention. This spatial assessment serves as a critical foundation for formulating targeted and sustainable management strategies. The proposed measures aim to reconcile economic development with environmental preservation, safeguarding the ecological integrity, biodiversity, and cultural significance of Phu Quoc Island for future generations. By advancing the understanding of landscape assessment methodologies and their applications, this research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable landscape management and conservation. It highlights the need for integrated, evidence-based approaches to balance development with preservation in rapidly urbanizing regions, offering insights that are applicable not only to Phu Quoc Island but also to similar landscapes facing comparable challenges globally.

Cooperation of Ukraine with international organizations in the field of environmental security

The article examines the main aspects of Ukraine’s cooperation with international organizations in the field of environmental security. This is an important factor in ensuring sustainable development, adaptation to global environmental challenges and the implementation of international environmental standards. It is emphasized that within the framework of cooperation with the United Nations Development Program, the United Nations Environment Program, the European Union and other international institutions, Ukraine is implementing a number of strategic programs aimed at environmental protection, combating climate change, natural resource management and ecological rehabilitation of territories affected by armed conflict. The United Nations Development Program plays a significant role in this process, providing technical and financial support for the implementation of environmental initiatives, modernization of the waste management system, development of renewable energy and implementation of the principles of the «green economy». It is noted that the UN Environment Program carries out independent monitoring of the state of the environment in Ukraine, providing recommendations on overcoming environmental crises and reducing the impact of military actions on natural ecosystems. It is emphasized that joint programs of UNDP and Ukraine are aimed at creating sustainable environmental solutions and strengthening national potential in the environmental sphere. They contribute to the integration of environmental security into state policy, which is an important step on the path to sustainable development of the country. Some aspects of cooperation with the EU are analyzed. One of the key areas is the harmonization of Ukraine’s environmental legislation with EU norms and standards. An important aspect is Ukraine’s participation in EU-funded programs, such as the LIFE Programme, Horizon Europe, and the European Climate Initiative, which contribute to the implementation of environmental reforms and support for local communities in implementing environmental measures. It is concluded that international environmental cooperation contributes to increasing the level of environmental security of Ukraine. Financial and technical support from international organizations allows for the implementation of environmental reforms, adaptation of national legislation to European standards, and improvement of the efficiency of natural resource management.

A Study on Farmer Perception on Organic Farming in Chikkaballapur District

Organic farming is widely acknowledged as an eco-friendly and sustainable method of agriculture, promoting environmental conservation and natural resource management. It prioritizes soil fertility, ecological balance, and food safety while avoiding synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Instead, it employs natural methods such as composting, crop rotation, biological pest management, and green manure to maintain productivity and biodiversity. Although the Indian government has introduced initiatives like the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) and Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), the widespread adoption of organic farming is hindered by economic and structural challenges. This research investigates the perceptions, awareness, and attitudes of farmers in the Chikkaballapur District, Karnataka, regarding organic farming. A mixed-method approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, was used to survey 150 farmers from different villages within the district. The study sought to assess their awareness, perceived benefits, and challenges in adopting organic practices. Research suggests that while numerous farmers are aware of organic farming, its adoption remains low due to financial challenges, market restrictions, and the intricate process of obtaining organic certification. To enhance adoption, policy measures should focus on expanding farmer training programs, increasing financial assistance, and creating exclusive organic marketplaces.

A Critical Analysis of the Bihar Government's Jal Jeevan Hariyali Initiative

Finding sustainable ways to manage natural resources, particularly in the world's fragile drylands, has become crucial to halting and reversing the degradation of essential resources such as soil and water. This challenge is especially significant in a country like India, where 70 percent of the population still resides in rural areas, and 80 percent of the annual rainfall occurs during the monsoon season.To address this, policymakers worldwide have introduced various community-based development strategies, emphasizing local participation in decision-making to enhance sustainability. India has a long-standing tradition of village self-governance, and modern policies aim to revive and strengthen this practice. One such approach is integrated watershed management, which treats watershed areas as a single unit, encouraging villagers to actively engage in planning and implementation. This method has empowered numerous villages to adopt water harvesting and soil conservation techniques, leading to improved agricultural productivity and enhanced social well-being.This article critically examines "Natural Resource Management for Sustainable Development through Community Participation in India." It is a review-based study, with information gathered from secondary sources such as online databases, journals, textbooks, blogs, magazines, and newspapers.

Biodiversity data sharing platforms are vital for the management and prevention of biological invasions

Abstract Ethical and effective data sharing is essential for best-practice, evidence-based invasive species management. While the tools and willingness to use data sharing platforms are increasing within the environmental research community, there remains a clear need among invasive species managers and practitioners to engage with knowledge-sharing databases. Here we call attention to the positive outcomes of information exchange for invasive species management, and urge researchers to actively lead and participate in efforts to empower natural resource managers to overcome barriers to data sharing. We highlight that the technology and standards are already available to enable widespread uptake of data sharing platforms, close the “knowing-doing gap” and minimise the potential for biological invasions into the future– we now need to work together as a scientific community to utilise these resources.

Morphometric Characterization of the Lova River Sub-basin in the Perimeter of the Concession of the Catoca Mining Society with Geotechnology for the Definition of Environmental Indicators

The present study of "Morphometric Characterization of the Lova River Sub-basin in the Perimeter of the Concession of the Sociedade Mineira de Catoca with Geotechnology for the Definition of Environmental Indicators", aims to determine the morphometric aspects of the Lova River sub-basin, located in the perimeter of the concession of Sociedade Mineira de Catoca, Lda. From the digital modeling of conditioned hydrological elevation, using the ArcMap/ArcGIS 10.8 software, data were generated that enable the delimitation of the basin and the analysis of critical variables. These morphometric parameters, such as drainage density and slope, serve as essential tools for the definition of environmental indicators and the sustainable planning of mining operations and environmental recovery. The approach integrates remote sensing techniques and geographic information systems, providing a comprehensive view of the hydrological and environmental conditions of the area. The results highlight that the sub-basin has distinct morphometric characteristics, such as a total area of 162 km2 and predominantly smooth relief, with significant implications for runoff and erosion dynamics. Parameters such as concentration time and drainage density reveal a moderate hydrological response, being useful to guide local environmental management. The analysis highlights the importance of using geotechnologies in the management of natural resources, contributing to the development of strategies adapted to the particularities of the sub-basin, with the potential to promote sustainable practices and minimize environmental risks.

Water Is Worth More Than Gold: Networked Activism and Transnational Resistance to Extractivism in the Cerro Blanco Mining Conflict

This paper analyzes the Cerro Blanco mining conflict in Asunción Mita, Guatemala, as a pivotal case of networked activism in Central America. On September 18, 2022, 89% of Asunción Mita’s residents voted against the Cerro Blanco metallic mining project, citing concerns over water contamination and environmental degradation. This decisive referendum was met with resistance from Bluestone Resources, the Canadian mining company, and the Guatemalan government, which challenged the legitimacy of the vote, exposing tensions between community sovereignty, state policies, and corporate interests. Using the "Not In Anyone’s Backyard" (NIABY) framework and water justice principles, the paper explores how the Cerro Blanco case represents grassroots resistance to transnational extractivism, particularly in relation to shared water resources in the Lempa River basin, which connects Guatemala and El Salvador. The study highlights how networked activism, involving local, regional, and international actors, fosters opposition to extractivism and advocates for sustainable governance. Framing water as both a human right and a shared common good, the paper underscores the importance of collective action and transboundary cooperation in safeguarding ecosystems and advancing environmental justice. The study calls for stronger legal protections, such as the Escazú Agreement, to ensure inclusive decision-making in natural resource management. By positioning the Cerro Blanco conflict within broader regional struggles for water justice, the paper emphasizes the transformative potential of networked activism in resisting extractive industries and promoting equitable resource governance.

Preserving coastal environments requires an integrated natural and cultural resources management approach.

Integration of natural and cultural resource management is urgently needed to combat the effects of climate change. Scientists must contend with how human-induced climate change and rapid population expansion are fundamentally reworking densely inhabited coastal zones. We propose that a merger of archaeology, environmental science, and land management policy-different yet intertwined domains-is needed to address dramatic losses to biocultural resources that comprise coupled cultural-natural systems. We demonstrate the urgency of such approaches through analyses of coastal archaeological regions within the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coasts where sea level rise is a primary threat, and we extend our findings globally through an assessment of primary risk factors and forecasts for archaeological sites in the Netherlands, Peru, and Oceania. Results show that across the U.S. Gulf Coast and in Oceania, where little hard infrastructure is in place to protect archaeological sites, hundreds of low-lying coastal sites will be lost under future climate scenarios. In other coasts, like that of the Rhine-Meuse Delta (the Netherlands), risks range from erosion caused by periods of flooding to the degradation of wetland sites caused by extreme droughts. In coastal Peru, population pressures pose the primary risk to archaeological sites through rapid agro-industrial growth, urban expansion, and El Niño climate variability. Across all risks, we propose that management strategies to mitigate losses to biocultural resources must be approached as a restoration process of linked sociocultural and physical environmental systems.

Shaping Camper Behavior to Protect Wildlife: Effects of a Social Marketing Approach in National Parks

ABSTRACT Wildlife seeking human food in campgrounds creates persistent management challenges in national parks. This study examined how a social marketing intervention, based on a behavior change model, influenced campers to responsibly manage food and other items that might attract wildlife. We made 5,458 observations of campsites across four national parks using a quasi-experimental design to compare behavior in treatment and control groups, in parks with wildlife-resistant boxes, and after a wildlife incident. Analyses determined that compliance was greater in the treatment areas of three out of four parks, underscoring the potential effectiveness of interventions that: (a) create opportunities for compliance using social and environmental cues, and (b) motivate visitors by aligning desired behaviors with their immediate experiences and goals. In the fourth park, campers within the treatment area who also received a “report card” had higher compliance than others within the treatment area, tepidly illustrating the potential effectiveness of receiving feedback. This study demonstrates the utility of real-world case studies to determine the potential effectiveness of social marketing interventions that promote responsible behaviors and reduce human-wildlife conflicts, offering a promising approach for natural resource managers to meet conservation goals while enhancing visitor experiences.