Conserving living resources in third world countries: economic and social issues

Abstract

The author examines socio‐economic factors as elements in conservation problems and policies in the Third World, taking into account population growth and income aspirations in LDCs, expansion of the market system, introduction of new technology, discounting of the future and difficulties of policy enforcement. The case of the Dugong or Sea Cow (Dugong dugon) is used as an illustration. On the policy side, matters such as the role of national self interest (including possible gains from international tourism as in the case of Tanzania), the distribution of gains and losses from conservation and the provision of information and education are discussed to give a general overview. Implications of international aid and assistance for conservation in LDCs are also discussed.