ZenToks Publication

CHAPTER 6

Sustainable Management of Natural Resources for Preventing Desertification and Adapting to Climate Change in Developing Countries: Need for Policy

Abstract/Preface

The chapter discussed sustainable management of natural resources for preventing desertification and adapting to climate change in developing countries: Need for policy. It highlights the key concepts of sustainable management of natural resources, preventing desertification for enhancing sustainable management of natural resources, need for sustainable management of natural resources as well as challenges of sustainable management of natural resources. Sustainable management of natural resources involves the responsible planning, use, conservation and restoration of natural resources such as land, water, forests, minerals and biodiversity to ensure that they meet present human needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainable management of natural resources in developing countries is crucial for promoting long-term economic development, environmental health and social stability. The approach seeks to balance environmental health, economic development and social well-being by using resources efficiently and responsibly, avoiding overexploitation, maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity of natural ecosystems, promoting long-term resource availability through regeneration and conservation and involving local communities and respecting indigenous knowledge and rights. Developing countries often rely heavily on natural resources such as forest, water, mineral and arable lands for their livelihoods, economic growth and public revenue. However, mismanagement and overexploitation can lead to environmental degradation, conflict and poverty. Aligning natural resources management with climate change adaptation and mitigation plans and developing early warning systems for droughts, floods and other natural disasters remain paramount in order to prevent desertification and ensure environmental sustainability which enhances economic development.