NGOS And Rivers

This chapter outlines the role of non-state actors, specifically environmental conservation non-government organizations, in the complex socio-ecological river systems of the Asian Highlands. It explores the idea of “environmental conservation”—the concepts underpinning it and the actions inspired by it—from the perspective of human discourse and social organization, arguing that conservation efforts exist alongside state projects as human activities. It explores the distinction and relationship between the enumerated-and objectives-based approach of modern conservation and more local-based and experientially based understandings of the environment, and it suggests that local perspectives must be included in all decision-making processes yet offers a critical view to gauge the extent and efficacy of this kind of collaboration, “participation,” and “inclusion.” The chapter ends with a boxed sidebar on Yunnan’s fish conservation.