Can public participation increase nature conservation effectiveness?

Abstract

It is not possible to develop guidelines on how to involve communities in nature conservation in countries with no experience in this area without drawing on the experience of experts in public participation and the human dimension, especially where changes in environmental management must be made in a relatively short time and in the most effective manner. This paper presents the results of a study on the practical application of the public participatory approach in nature, particularly biodiversity conservation, conducted among American decision-makers with expertise in providing consultation and involving communities in the management of natural resources. A critical presentation of the functioning of the public participatory approach has been related to the need for its application in European Member States.