A rapid assessment of perceptions into environmental management in the Maldives : volume 1 : environmental education and community mobilisation

Abstract

This report is designed to provide a basis for the development of environmental education tools and methodologies for environmental management that are both effective and appropriate to the expectations and context of the beneficiaries. The findings from this Rapid Assessment of Perceptions (RAP) are numerous and reflective of the many challenges facing a small island state. The knowledge of environmental issues within the community was high and participants had good awareness of the links between social, economic and environmental issues. However, awareness alone will not lead to change: there is an apparent lack of the social/economic skills needed to act, coupled with poor understanding of alternative options. The general focus of environmental education in the past has been within the biophysical paradigm, exploring environmental linkages and some ‘cause and effect’ theories. While this paradigm is important and relevant, attention needs to be paid to the social and economic processes that mediate environmental sustainability, especially in the area of water governance. The RAP identified five defined areas where environmental management could be strengthened: (i) strengthening capacity for safeguarding and monitoring of water resources, (ii) cultivating domestic expertise in participative facilitation techniques, (iii) focusing on and understanding local needs and exciting skills and knowledge and (iv) promoting of individual and community reflective activities. Part IV of the report brings forward the scope, principles and methodologies to advance sound environmental management through education and learning.