Community-based approaches to

achieve economic efficiency/

sustainability
 Introduction
• Community-based approaches play a crucial role in
achieving economic efficiency and sustainability by
involving local communities in decision-making, resource
management, and development processes.
• These approaches recognize the importance of community
engagement, empowerment, and ownership in achieving
long-term economic and environmental goals.
• Some examples of community-based approaches Include:

– Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM)

– Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)
– Community-Based Tourism
– Social Enterprises and Cooperatives
 Community-Based Natural Resource
Management (CBNRM)
• CBNRM involves empowering local communities to actively
participate in the management and conservation of natural
resources.
• It recognizes the knowledge and traditional practices of
local communities and involves them in decision-making,
resource allocation, and benefit-sharing arrangements.
• By involving communities, CBNRM aims to ensure
sustainable use, conservation, and equitable distribution of
natural resources.
• Example: Involving local fishing communities in the co-
management of marine protected areas, where they
collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and
researchers to regulate fishing practices, monitor
biodiversity, and ensure the long-term sustainability of fish
stocks.
Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)
• PRA is an approach that engages local communities in the
assessment, planning, and monitoring of development projects.
• It recognizes the importance of local knowledge, priorities, and
aspirations.
• PRA methodologies involve participatory techniques such as
mapping, group discussions, and community consultations to
gather community perspectives, identify needs, and ensure that
development initiatives align with the community's goals.
• Example: Conducting participatory mapping exercises with
indigenous communities to identify and map out their traditional
territories, resource use areas, and important cultural sites. This
information can inform land-use planning and ensure that
development projects respect community rights and aspirations.
 Community-Based Tourism
• Community-based tourism focuses on involving local
communities in tourism activities, allowing them to benefit
economically while preserving their cultural heritage and
natural environment.
• It promotes community ownership, cultural preservation,
and sustainable tourism practices that minimize negative
environmental and socio-cultural impacts.
• Example: Developing home stay programs where tourists
stay with local families, providing economic opportunities
for the community and allowing visitors to experience local
culture, traditions, and natural surroundings. Income
generated from tourism can be reinvested in community
development projects.
 Social Enterprises and Cooperatives
• Social enterprises and cooperatives are community-based business
models that prioritize social and environmental objectives alongside
economic goals.
• These organizations are typically owned and operated by
community members, with profits reinvested for community
benefit.
• They often adopt sustainable practices, support local livelihoods,
and contribute to the local economy.
• Example: Establishing a community-owned cooperative for
sustainable agriculture, where local farmers collaborate to share
resources, knowledge, and market access.
• The cooperative may adopt organic farming practices, promote fair
trade principles, and invest in community projects such as
education or healthcare.
 Conclusion
• Community-based approaches promote a sense of
ownership, social cohesion, and sustainability by
involving communities in decision-making processes
and allowing them to actively participate in the
management and utilization of resources.
• These approaches contribute to economic efficiency
and sustainability by ensuring that development
initiatives are aligned with local needs, values, and
aspirations, leading to more equitable and
environmentally conscious outcomes.