The importance of the input of local communities in conservation of biodiversity and the drive towards sustainability of natural ecosystems cannot be overemphasized. Using a cross-sectional design and triangulation, this study explored the types of, and motives for, conservation behaviors amongst three comparative communities living adjacent the biodiversity well-endowed Chobe National Park in Botswana. The purpose is to draw attention to factors underlying the conservation behaviors, hence establish a point of departure for sustainable solutions to environmentally adverse behaviors and enhancement of the positive ones. A total of 473 household surveys and twelve key informant interviews were conducted through, respectively, systematic random sampling and purposive selection. Both quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques were used including frequencies, ANOVA, framework analysis and data displays. Findings indicate that conservation behaviors are mainly positive amongst the locals – a state largely precipitated by, among others, the fear of penalties of non-compliance, and reduced focus on environmental resources due to alternative livelihood activities, mainly government employment. On the other hand, determinants of negative behaviors include frustrations emanating from resource deprivation, wildlife damages and poor compensation. For sustainability, this paper concludes that the use of punitive policy measures to motivate conservation should be paralleled by more people-oriented ways or self-motivating factors. Further, there is need to document the role played by households’ attainment of incentives like conservation benefits in shaping conservation behaviors since it is at this level where decisions about the use or conservation of the environment are practical for rural communities.

Authors:
Bothepha Mosetlhi, University of Botswana, Botswana

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Bothepha Mosetlhi is a lecturer at the University of Botswana, Department of Environmental Science. Her research includes parks & people; conservation behaviors; resource governance; climate change & livelihood adaptation & rainwater harvesting.

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