The role of traditional ecological knowledge in ecosystem services management: the case of four rural communities in Northern Ghana

Boafo, Yaw Agyeman, Saito, Osamu, Kato, Sadahisa, Kamiyama, Chiho, Takeuchi, Kazuhiko and Nakahara, Miri, (2015). The role of traditional ecological knowledge in ecosystem services management: the case of four rural communities in Northern Ghana. International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management, 12(1-2), 24-38

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  • Sub-type Journal article
    Author Boafo, Yaw Agyeman
    Saito, Osamu
    Kato, Sadahisa
    Kamiyama, Chiho
    Takeuchi, Kazuhiko
    Nakahara, Miri
    Title The role of traditional ecological knowledge in ecosystem services management: the case of four rural communities in Northern Ghana
    Appearing in International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management
    Volume 12
    Issue No. 1-2
    Publication Date 2015
    Place of Publication Abingdon
    Publisher Taylor & Francis
    Start page 24
    End page 38
    Language eng
    Abstract This study combines qualitative and quantitative research to examine perceptions held by rural households in Northern Ghana regarding the value of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) in the management of ecosystem services. Key informant interviews (n = 14), household questionnaire surveys (n = 195), field observations, and dissemination meetings were employed to collect data. Results suggest the regular use of different but interrelated forms of TEK, i.e. taboos and totems, customs and rituals, rules and regulations, and traditional protected areas, to manage ecosystem services through existing sociocultural mechanisms. However, household awareness of TEK did not equate with compliance. A wide discrepancy in views on TEK was observed across surveyed households. A generalized linear model (GLM) regression analysis suggests age to be the most significant determinant of TEK awareness and compliance. Compared with mature and younger adults, the elderly appear more likely to be aware of and comply with characterized TEK systems. Notwithstanding these findings, the use of traditional protected areas as a form of TEK appears to be highly valued by the majority of survey participants. Demand-led research aimed at examining TEK’s role in the face of changing socioeconomic and environmental conditions can contribute to the formulation and implementation of policy-relevant strategies.
    Keyword Awareness and compliance
    Ecosystem Services
    Northern Ghana
    Management
    Traditional Ecological Knowledge
    Copyright Holder Taylor & Francis
    Copyright Year 2015
    Copyright type All rights reserved
    ISSN 21513732
    DOI 10.1080/21513732.2015.1124454
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    Created: Fri, 18 Mar 2016, 16:15:18 JST by Makiko Arima on behalf of UNU IAS