Zerihun N., Tsunekawa, A., Nigussie H., Enyew A., Cochrane, L. and Floquet, A. and Abele, S. (2018). Applying Ostom's Institutional Analysis and Development to Soil and Water Conservation in Ethiopia. Land Use Policy. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landusepol.2017.11.039

Abstract: Sustainable land management is of utmost importance in Ethiopia and relies on Soil and Water Conservation (SWC) measures collectively implemented by smallholders through participatory processes. This paper contributes systematic evidence on how SWC strategies are implemented and how participation is operationalized. Drawing upon inductive, qualitative research, we explore the design, implementation and evaluation of SWC activities, as they relate to Ostrom's Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) framework, in order to determine how the activities can be made more appropriate, effective and sustainable. Findings show that on all levels of Ostrom's framework, there are shortcomings in the SWC institutions, which have to be addressed with more participatory approaches, a change from top-down to bottom-up measures, and economic incentives for farmers to invest in SWC measures instead of e.g. compulsory labor, and the integration of so far neglected groups like youth, women and the landless.

Available here. From the Journal here.

3 postdoctoral research assistant positions are available at the University of Stirling to work in the research group of Dr Nils Bunnefeld on a European Research Council (ERC) funded project entitled "Resolving conflicts between food security and biodiversity conservation under uncertainty (ConFooBio)". The three posts will initially be employed on a 3 year fixed term contract with the possibility of 2 more years after successful evaluation.

Conflicts between food security and biodiversity conservation are increasing in scale and intensity and have been shown to be damaging for both biodiversity and human livelihoods. Managing a specific natural resource often results in conflict between those stakeholders focusing on improving food security and those focused on biodiversity conversation. Uncertainty, for example from climate change, decreases food security, puts further pressure on biodiversity and exacerbates these conflicts. ConFooBio aims to illuminate resolutions to such conflicts by developing a practical, transparent and flexible model for the sustainable future of natural resources that is also robust to uncertainty. ConFooBio will work on 7 topical case studies of conflicts: elephants and farming (Gabon), geese and farming (Denmark & UK), common cranes and farming (Sweden), grouse shooting and hen harrier conservation (UK), salmon farming and wild salmon (Norway) and wild reindeer conservation and tourism (Norway).

More here.