Care for Earth's wild resources

Author: Eugene Lapointe
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-06-01
Features: Preface
This book presents observations, analyses, and insights from an experienced and knowledgeable conservationist, providing readers with both familiar and new information on contemporary environmental conservation. I call it "familiar" because the actions advocated by the author align with recommendations from the 1987 World Commission on Environment and Development report (the "Brundtland Report") and the 1991 World Conservation Strategy (also known as "Our Common Future"). Both reports propose conservation strategies that favor sustainable use, replacing the problematic "fortress conservation" approach with one-size-fits-all doctrines. "Fortress conservation" has proven to be costly, ineffective, and detrimental to both the environment and human society. The book contains much new information, particularly useful for readers passionate about environmental causes and those tracking ongoing discussions between governments and various interest groups on conservation and resource use.
Mr. Lapointe has worked for many years in UN conservation institutions (CITES), making him intimately familiar with the clashes and outcomes of international political, financial, and ideological forces in environmental management. His long-standing perspective within CITES allows him to discern the changes in environmentalism over the past two decades: how grassroots concerns have evolved into a multi-million-dollar industry, with increasingly competitive players vying for dominance.
A renowned Canadian economic historian, Harold Innis, observed that many forward-thinking individuals turn a blind eye. From the events around us, we can certainly understand the circumstances that shape our concerns and outcomes. While highlighting that we should not focus solely on the biological status of a particular animal, plant species, or habitat, Mr. Lapointe reminds us that the success of a practical conservation plan hinges on whether it is grounded in principles of sustainable use, cultural diversity, and respect for human rights and national sovereignty. He further emphasizes that sound scientific evidence should inform policymakers, telling them about the obligations international treaties impose on authorities to adhere to conservation regulations; legislative frameworks must be fully respected. Today, the extent to which internationally recognized conservation laws are upheld should be a matter of universal concern for all who value future environmental health.
The book offers a broad overview of the state of conservation and the path forward for environmentalism today. The issues discussed are not all about blaming governments (some involve corruption). Some problems pertain to two groups: one being urban special interest groups who propose the "best solution" for the rural populations worldwide who depend on wildlife for their livelihoods; the other being proponents of unhealthy species protection schemes that could devastate rural communities.
Many have noted that poverty is the greatest threat to the environment. In the future, many parts of the world will become better off due to projects promoting social justice, the full implementation of sustainable wildlife use, and its economic benefits. Mr. Lapointe argues that in past decades, developed countries have become prosperous and healthy through resource use, and there is no ethical justification today to deny developing countries the same opportunity to utilize resources. Prohibiting sustainable use is not the solution—it only creates problems. Mr. Lapointe observes that a stance has been recognized and adopted by progressive governments and non-governmental conservation organizations worldwide.
Conservation is not rocket science. In fact, it is not science at all but a mix of understandings and perspectives, an excellent practice under the banner of improved management and co-management. If we do not learn from experience, conservation plans will at least fail at the outset, and failure is hardly surprising. To this end, Mr. Lapointe stresses the importance of mutual respect, trust, cooperation, and communication among all parties, as only then can conservation succeed. The book’s success lies in providing numerous candid examples. Milton M. R. Freeman, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada