Vol. 12, Special Issue 12 (2023)

Author(s):
Reshma A Victor, A Anil Kumar, Allan Thomas and Smitha KP

Abstract:
Environmental conservation has become a pressing global concern, and community participation plays a crucial role in its success. In the context of Kerala, the involvement of local governance bodies, such as Biodiversity Management Committee (BMCs), is instrumental in implementing and promoting sustainable environmental practices. This study aims to assess the level of BMC members participation in activities related to environmental conservation across different regions of Kerala, focusing on lowland, midland, and high range areas. Based on the biodiversity richness and ecological sensitivity four blocks each were selected purposively from lowlands of Kannur and Alappuzha districts, midlands of Kollam and Malappuram districts and high ranges of Wayanad and Idukki districts of Kerala. In total, 12 blocks were identified for the study. A sample of 180 BMC members were selected from the 6 districts for the study purpose. Data was collected on four key parameters: time spent on conservation activities, actual participation in environmental initiatives, assumed leadership status, and the ability to mobilize people for conservation efforts. The data collected from the respondents were scored, tabulated and analysed using appropriate statistical methods, including Mean, Standard Deviation (SD), Standard Error (SE), One way ANOVA and Pearson correlation coefficient. Overall mean score illustrated that the mean total participation score for all districts is 2.17, which indicates a low level of involvement of BMC members in activities related to environmental conservation activities across the sampled districts. Among the regions and districts, BMC members of Kollam (2.59), Kannur (2.58), and Alappuzha (2.42) showed a better level of involvement when compared to the Wayanad (2.03), Idukki (2.02), and Malappuram (1.51). Among the parameters, time spent (2.47) and participation in environmental activities (2.33) were the major determinants of the level of involvement of BMC members followed by assumed leadership status (2.11) and mobilizing people (1.91). Similarly, the BMC members from lowland regions (2.50) displayed the highest mean scores in time-spent (2.77) participation (2.62), assumed leadership (2.42), and mobilizing people (2.18). This ANOVA result implies that there are significant differences in BMC members engagement in environmental conservation activities among the different districts. Overall, the findings highlight the critical role of BMC members participation in environmental conservation efforts. By understanding the regional variations in participation, policymakers and stakeholders can tailor their approaches to address specific challenges and capitalize on the strengths of each area. Inclusive and proactive participation from BMC members across all regions is required for promoting sustainable practices for a greener and healthier Kerala.