Sustainable Use

Definition

Sustainable use refers to the management and utilization of natural resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept is particularly important in the context of wildlife trade, as it seeks to balance economic benefits with conservation efforts, ensuring that wildlife populations remain healthy and ecosystems are preserved.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sustainable use aims to regulate wildlife trade by implementing quotas and monitoring populations to prevent overexploitation.
2. It is often guided by international agreements such as CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) to ensure that trade does not threaten species survival.
3. Effective sustainable use practices can support local economies by providing alternative livelihoods that rely on wildlife conservation rather than exploitation.
4. Sustainable use emphasizes the need for community involvement in conservation efforts, recognizing that local populations are vital stakeholders in resource management.
5. Successful sustainable use requires scientific research to inform policies and practices that balance ecological integrity with economic needs.

Review Questions

• How does sustainable use contribute to balancing economic development and conservation efforts in wildlife trade?
  • Sustainable use plays a crucial role in balancing economic development with conservation by allowing for the regulated harvesting of wildlife while ensuring that populations remain stable. By implementing guidelines such as quotas and monitoring practices, it enables communities to benefit economically from their natural resources without depleting them. This approach encourages a long-term perspective where both human livelihoods and ecological health are prioritized.
• Discuss the impact of international agreements like CITES on the principles of sustainable use in wildlife trade.
  • International agreements like CITES have a significant impact on sustainable use by providing a framework for regulating trade in endangered species. These agreements help ensure that wildlife trade is conducted sustainably by requiring countries to monitor their wildlife populations and enforce regulations that prevent overexploitation. By promoting sustainable practices globally, CITES supports biodiversity conservation and helps maintain ecosystem stability.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of community-based approaches in achieving sustainable use of wildlife resources.
  • Community-based approaches have proven effective in achieving sustainable use by empowering local populations to manage their natural resources. When communities are actively involved in conservation efforts, they are more likely to adopt sustainable practices that protect wildlife while also meeting their economic needs. Such approaches foster stewardship and responsibility among local stakeholders, leading to more successful outcomes in biodiversity conservation and habitat preservation.

Related terms

Conservation: The responsible management of natural resources to prevent exploitation, degradation, and destruction of the environment and wildlife.

Biodiversity: The variety of life on Earth, including the diversity of species, ecosystems, and genetic variations, which is essential for ecosystem resilience and function.

Wildlife Trade: The buying and selling of wildlife and wildlife products, which can have significant implications for species survival and ecosystem health.