Biodiversity conservation and cash crop development in northern Thailand
Author(s):
Tungittiplakorn, Waranoot; Dearden, Phillip
Format:
Journal article
Citation:
Biodiversity And Conservation, Volume 11, Issue 11 (2002). pp. 2007-2025.
Language:
English
Abstract:
This study examines some of the implications of increased cash cropping for wildlife in the highlands of northern Thailand. Through in-depth study of two Hmong villages and interviews in several others, information was collected regarding cash crop adoption patterns, comparisons between various cash crops in terms of inputs and yields and trends in land use change and hunting behaviour. The results show that the newer cash crops, cabbage and carnations in particular, have greater abilities to support larger human populations per unit land area and thereby reduce pressure for increased land clearing. However, strong concerns remain regarding the chemical inputs used on these crops. Since the adoption of cash cropping, hunting frequency has declined. Interviewees provided seven reasons, with the time requirements for cash crop tending being the main one. Hunting is still practiced but largely for social rather than economic reasons. One exception is the regular hunting of small animals by opium addicts. Others now have sufficient money to be able to buy meat. Hunters span all economic classes. Hunting now plays a reduced social role in the society. In general, the younger generation has reduced knowledge of the forest environment. No support was found for the hypothesis that cash cropping had reduced village regulations on hunting, as few such regulations exist amongst the Hmong. This study suggests that there may be advantages to biodiversity conservation from cash cropping in the highlands of SE Asia and confirms the much broader scope that conservation scientists must embrace in order to understand all the factors that might influence biodiversity in a region.