The power of science: community-based research
Biodiversity conservation largely depends on mankind’s collective ability to negotiate and enforce legislative agreements and these agreements are elaborated based on scientific evidence. Conducting research can invest community members with the essential knowledge and jurisdiction for managing their environment. Research generates trust among partners, objectively resolves conflicts with binding policies, and improves transparency through knowledge exchange. Valorizing local participation in environmental research recognizes the community as the rightful custodian of the local natural resources.
Participatory action research
PAR can be described as environmental improvement progressing in cycles of inquiry and action propelled by community voice. This model of research corresponds to the needs of common resource management in Negril, which faces growing ecosystem degradation exacerbated by climate change.
Traditional ecological knowledge
Local community groups are regarded as valuable conservation advocates and leaders. This is partly due to their adaptability to environmental change provided by the richness of ecological knowledge. The success of restoration often depends on the integration of traditional ecological knowledge and conventional science. Attuned to both people and place, traditional ecological knowledge can best defend not only cultural but biological diversity as well.