Socio economic and cultural research
relating to environmental sustainability
Research pertaining to socio-economic conditions and cultural dynamics is an essential aspect of addressing sustainability concerns, as these are associated with societal practices that lead to different forms of environmental change. At Rhodes University, ongoing research is carried out on topics such as livelihoods, poverty and religious beliefs, and associated environmental issues.
Bio-Cultural Diversity Conservation
The Bio-Cultural Diversity Conservation cluster at Rhodes University has found that nearly fifty percent of wild plant resources harvested by households in rural and urban communities are used for spiritual and ritual purposes. Loss of biodiversity may thus be seen as a threat to the sustainability of cultural practices and cultural identity in indigenous communities. It may be argued that the cultural value associated with various plant species will help support biodiversity conservation, and that research in this field could make a significant contribution to the International Convention on Biological Diversity.
Explore research opportunities: Bio-Cultural Diversity Conservation cluster, Botany and ISER
Rural communities and environmental change research
In the Department of Anthropology, research has been carried out in rural areas in southern Africa and Indian Ocean islands on issues relating to development, conservation, heritage, tourism and environmental change, in collaboration with Institute for Social and Economic Research (ISER). For example, research has been conducted on the relationship between gender, rural households and changes in the natural environment. Others areas of research include IK (indigenous knowledge), conservation reform, natural resource management and rural development.
Resettlement and urbanisation
In the Institute for Social and Economic Research (ISER), studies have also been conducted on resettlement and urbanisation, and on issues relating to the use of natural resources, land use and environmental-cultural practices, with a strong emphasis on livelihoods - under the banner of the Bio-Cultural Diversity Conservation cluster.
Explore research opportunities: Anthropology and ISER
Go to the Rhodes University ENVIRONMENT front page. Suggestions/Questions? Contact environment(at)ru.ac.za
