Cultural aspects of wetland management: An overview

Abstract

Wetlands have given rise to a rich variety of human cultural values, belief systems and associated practices. Safeguarding this heritage, and the role of culture in ensuring future resilience of human societies, depends on protection and wise management of the wetland environments that produce it. Conversely, a better understanding of these cultural aspects, and an integrated approach to manage- ment, is key to the successful conservation of most wetlands. This chapter examines the ways in which this can be achieved.