Title: Indigenous knowledge and culture on natural resources management in the Salween canyon, Yunnan Province, China

Authors: H. Huang, B. Chen, C. Yang, H. Zhu

Addresses: Fundamental Section of Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu, 610066, China. ' Southwest Forestry College, Kunming City, 650224, China. ' Environments and Resources College of Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu City, 610066, China. ' Chuxiong Normal College, Chuxiong City, Yunnan, China

Abstract: This research tries to find out some indigenous knowledge and culture on natural resources management in the Salween canyon, Yunnan Province, China. The indigenous people studied are some minority nationalities including Lisu, Nu, Dulong, Tibetan and Bai. Methodology mainly includes field research, the use of key informants, secondary data, unstructured interview and ocular observation. Findings show the utilisation pattern and management of natural resources especially forest of these indigenous people. The study points out that this indigenous knowledge is the embodiment of the indigenous people adjusting to their natural environment for their survival over time, which has been effected by external influence and state policies. It should be taken into account during decision-making process.

Keywords: indigenous knowledge; indigenous culture; natural resources management; minority nationalities; China; forests; decision making.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRAM.2008.019025

International Journal of Risk Assessment and Management, 2008 Vol.8 No.4, pp.395 - 411

Published online: 27 Jun 2008 *

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