This book presents case studies highlighting social, economic, political, and biological dimensions of environmental degradation in the Third World. It uses local data to examine, test, and refine larger explanatory models and theories. .

This document series has been initiated to encourage an international exchange of ideas on science and technology education. It is intended to develop greater awareness of the nature of science and technology and their role in education.

Protected areas operate within complex ecological and social systems, presenting challenges that cannot be resolved by technical solution alone. Achieving the management objectives of protected areas requires a social approach in which strategic communication is a key instrument. This publication explores the often underestimated potential of communication, sharing valuable experiences from protected areas across the world, drawing on papers presented at the Vth IUCN World Parks Congress, 2003 and others.