Financial incentives: Possible options for sustainable rangeland management?. (15th September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Louhaichi, Mounir; Yigezu, Yigezu A.; Werner, Jutta; Dashtseren, Lojoo; El-Shater, Tamer; Ahmed, Mohamed
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 180(2016)
• Page Start: 493
• Page End: 503
• Publication Date: 2016-09-15
• Subjects: Adoption -- Agri-environmental schemes -- Dryland ecosystem -- Environmental benefits -- Subsidized fodder -- Minimum data; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2016.05.077
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: Large-scale mismanagement of natural resources emanating from lack of appropriate policies and regulatory framework is arguably one of the reasons that led to resource degradation and poor livelihoods in many countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Sustainable rangeland management practices (SRMPs) are considered to be a solution to feed shortages and rangeland degradation. However, the scope for SRMP adoption, has been a subject of debate. Using a case study from Syria and the application of the Minimum Data Analysis method (TOA-MD), this paper provides empirical evidence for ensuring wider adoption of SRMP. The paper argues that the introduction of financial incentives in the form of payments for agricultural-environmental services can increase the economic viability and enhance the adoption of SRMPs and is a better alternative to the unsustainable state subsidies for fodder purchases and barley cultivation on rangelands. Model results indicate that further investment in reasearch toward generating low cost technologies and tailored governance strategies including a financial incentive system would lead to better management of rangelands and improve livelihoods in the Syrian Badia . These findings are valuable for policy makers, donors as well as development and extension practitioners in the MENA region as they can better inform future courses of actions. Highlights: Sustainable range management practices (SRMP) have 10–50% potential adoption rates. Adoption can be increased to a 100% by using incentive payments of US$240/ha/year. Alternatively, innovations that reduce costs of SRMP can enhance adoption. Research investment to reduce rangeland rehabilitation cost will have high returns.