Environment and Community Conflict Management: Exploring the Scope of Community Engagement as an Efficient Measure to Localized Common-Pool Resource (CPR) Management in Halti Beel, Bangladesh
摘要
This chapter examines the mismanagement of Common-Pool Resources (CPRs) in the Halti Beel area, focusing on environmental degradation, resource depletion, and conflicts. Employing Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) methodology, the research aims to assess current CPR extraction, engage the community, and empower locals for sustainable resource management. Various participatory tools such as social and resource mapping, transect walks, mobility mapping, dream mapping, and SWOT analysis are utilized to collect data and engage the community in resource management. The study examines conflicts within the Halti Beel community that stem from resource extraction. Using resource mapping and historical analysis, it uncovers contradictions among community members. It highlights Halti Beel’s ecological importance, emphasizing its diverse biodiversity, and addresses the challenges of managing shared resources, particularly land, water, and fisheries. The study reveals conflicts between farmers and fishermen, issues with land acquisition, wetland management, and implications of over-exploitation. Factors contributing to degradation include corruption, bird-killing, improper fishing methods, and a lack of employment opportunities. Recommendations include community engagement, negotiation, localized management, and better regulation implementation. Policy suggestions involve environmental and participatory governance and time-bound resource use agreements. The study underscores the importance of managing resource consumption for sustainable development, especially in addressing over-exploitation in developing countries like Bangladesh. It serves as a baseline for future conflict management efforts related to Common-Pool Resource degradation.