Reframing the concept of alternative livelihoods

Journal (part) article
Language:
English
Published: November 2015
Publisher(s):
Product code:X00142
Source publication:
Conservation Biology

Alternative livelihood project (ALP) is a widely used term for interventions that aim to reduce the prevalence of activities deemed to be environmentally damaging by substituting them with lower impact livelihood activities that provide at least equivalent benefits. ALPs are widely implemented in conservation, but in 2012, an International Union for Conservation of Nature resolution called for a critical review of such projects based on concern that their effectiveness was unproven. This study identifies flawed underlying assumptions of ALPs and recommends use of a sustainable livelihoods approach.