The effect of protected areas on rural communities : Jabal Moussa biosphere reserve case study

Abstract

Protected areas (PA), especially biosphere reserves (BR) that follow participatory approach, are considered effective instruments for the conservation of the world's habitats and for rural development. However, their impact on rural communities constitutes the most controversial debate in conservation policy and practice. Conservation in Lebanon has been a growing trend offering today at least 15 nature reserves, but the perception of people towards conservation and the impact of protected areas on rural communities in Lebanon have been poorly investigated. This study aims to reveal the impact of a BR on livelihoods and perceptions of rural communities and examine land use changes as a result of the allocation of the reserve. In addition, it examines the efficiency of national policies in ensuring rural participation in conservation practices. Since Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve is mainly on Waqf land, the study investigates the role of Waqf Land management in rural development. Mixed research methods, with a special focus on qualitative methodology, are used for an in-depth understanding of the raised topic. Data is collected from relevant stakeholders through focus group discussions and personal interviews. Statistical examination reveals the correlation between the respondents’ characteristics and their attitudes towards conservation. The study reveals the differential impact of the BR on locals’ perceptions indicating the importance of communication and understanding of rural communities’ needs and perceptions prior to the allocation of the biosphere reserve. Results identify the challenges facing BR in ensuring active and real participation of rural communities and highlight the potential role of BR in promoting rural development while conserving the environment through the application of “mixed methodologies” and “pro-poor conservation” concepts and highlights the importance of BR in being “learning sites” for the application of the “home