From local landscapes to international policy: contributions of the biocultural paradigm to global sustainability

Abstract

Nature and culture are intricately linked and the rapid loss of both biological and cultural diversity around the globe has led to increasing concerns about its effects on sustainability. Important efforts to understand biocultural relations and bolster sustainable practices have been made by scientists, local communities, civil society organizations and policy makers. In spite of their efforts, a stronger articulation between sectors and biocultural discourses is needed for a broader transformative impact. Here, we analyse the connections between prominent biocultural discourses and discuss how the biocultural paradigm can contribute to both local and global sustainability.

Keywords

• ecology & biodiversity
• human behaviour
• natural resources (biological and non-biological)
• policies
• politics and governance
• social value