Author Description

This concise introduction to the environmental problems of developing countries provides a clear perspective on complex issues. Numerous calls for "alternative", "participative", "sustainable", "integrative" or "environmentally sound" development have created more confusion than clarity in seeking solutions to the deteriorating environmental conditions in poor countries. The main objective of the book is to examine which aspects of these general concepts can actually be applied in development policies and planning. In this endeavor, it goes beyond general proclamations and seeks pragmatic ways of implementing a multidisciplinary development concept within the context of established political and sociocultural systems. The "ecodevelopment" approach adopted focuses on the direct improvement of the conditions of poverty in situ and in sympathy with custom, tradition and environment. Rather than dwell at length on technicalities, the book offers a rigorous framework for thinking about these problems. It reviews the prevailing concepts of environment and development and the major environmental concerns of developing countries. Proceeding from a framework of human interaction with ecological systems, ecodevelopment is then proposed as a means of solving environmental problems in line with national development objectives. Finally, some administrative aspects of ecodevelopment are highlighted. The book is of interest to a wide range of readers in resource economics, development studies, human geography, sociology and the environmental sciences.