Description
This report, "Charcoal in the Mist", describes the environmental security situation and the role of resources in one of the world's most important ecosystems, the Central Albertine Rift. This transboundary eco-region is important not only in terms of its great biodiversity, with many endemic species of birds and mammals, but also in terms of politics and security. As the source of the Nile River, the region is of great interest to other riparian states. Moreover, violent conflicts in the region, to a significant extent related to valuable mineral and natural resources, have (had) a major destabilising effect on states and communities in the wider Great Lakes region.
The report shows how insecurity, an ill-disciplined national Congolese army, high and rising population densities and increasing food and energy needs have resulted in a continuously growing demand for land and firewood, as well as an increasingly attractive charcoal industry in the DR Congo. The resulting environmental effects, such as forest degradation, wildlife poaching, soil erosion, overfishing and water pollution, pose great dangers to the survival of man and nature in this region.
After the analysis of these environmental security threats, this report tries to give an overview of current activities by many (inter)national organisations, in the field of mapping and monitoring, diplomacy and law, nature conservation, finance and economics, empowerment and training and eco-tourism.
Further, by making specific recommendations on "the way forward", this report aims to inspire people and organisations, in order to strengthen environmental protection, enhance security and promote sustainable development in the Central Albertine Rift.
Information
- Author(s)
- Eric van de Giessen
- Publisher
- Institute for Environmental Security
- Place published
- The Hague
- Date / journal vol no.
- May 2008
- Pages
- 55
