The Cardamom Conundrum: Reconciling Development and Conservation in the Kingdom of Cambodia - Softcover

Killeen, Timothy J.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 9971696142 ISBN 13: 9789971696146

Publisher: National University of Singapore Press, 2012

Synopsis

A "conundrum" is a puzzle whose solution requires the resolution of a paradox. In this instance, the paradox lies in two widely held and conflicting assumptions: that the pathway to a modern economy requires exploiting and monetizing a country's natural resources, and that the long-term prosperity of a nation depends on the conservation of those same resources. This book consciously seeks to avoid the mentality of "trade-offs", where pro-development advocates view conservation efforts as impediments and conservationists are convinced that development inevitably leads to a loss for nature. Instead, through an evaluation of opportunities in the still pristine forests of the Cardamom Mountains and surrounding landscapes, the author seeks to demonstrate that wise management of a nation's renewable natural resources will facilitate economic growth. Resolving the Cardamom Conundrum demands an economic model that provides robust growth, and that alleviates poverty over the short term and eradicates it over the medium term. Any other solution is impractical and morally unacceptable. The author points the way by indentifying innovative options linked to climate finance and low carbon development strategies that span the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development.

About this title

About the Author

Timothy J. KILLEEN is Senior Research Scientist with Conservation International (CI). He is the senior technical advisor for global change and ecosystem services in CI s Science and Knowledge division. Building upon a strong foundation of science, partnership and field demonstration, CI empowers societies to responsibly and sustainably care for nature, our global biodiversity, for the well-being of humanity.

Edition details

• Publisher: National University of Singapore Press
• Publication date: 2012
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 9971696142
• ISBN 13: 9789971696146
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 352