Das Projekt "Extensive Production Systems in Semi-Arid Regions - Options for Sustainable Future Livelihoods (TPP 6; NCCR North South)" wird vom Umweltbundesamt gefördert und von Institute of Sahel durchgeführt. Extensive production systems (EPS) are effective land use systems which allow using scarce natural resources in vast rural semi-arid and highland-lowland areas in a sustainable way by various societies. However, the societal and economic role of EPS is frequently underestimated if not overlooked, particularly at national political level. Ranging from pastoralism (sedentary and mobile) to alternative land uses (e.g. agro-sylvo-pastoralism), which secure the livelihoods of millions of rural peoples; the diversity of adaptation is remarkable. Over the last decades rapid and major socio-political, economic, cultural, institutional, and ecologic changes have put heavy and unprecedented pressures on many EPS. Considering their economic and political marginalisation, innovations are needed to motivate the younger generation to reconsider the EPS areas as a promising way of life and to convince policy makers to consider EPS as a potential capable to contribute to reduce migration towards urban centres.
Though the scientific literature regarding key features, potentials, and alternative land use systems is vast, few rigorous scientific comparative investigation related to implementation processes has been conducted so far. To fill this gap, such research should (i) link sociological, ecological, and economic perspectives, (ii) follow an inter- and trans-disciplinary approach grounded in regional partnerships, and (iii) compare and capitalize experiences gained in different geographical contexts. Moreover, the current situation should be reassessed by applying modern technologies while developing and promoting simple but well standardised and adapted (impact) monitoring protocols.
The research gap identified and intended to be addressed corresponds to two major strengths of the NCCR, which are (i) a strong focus on inter- and trans-disciplinary research and learning processes, and (ii) the opportunity to compare potentials, options, and best practices in the different JACS regions. The TPP is designed to build on these strengths in order to make a genuine contribution to research on EPS. Moreover, it draws upon a systemic approach allowing tackling the complexity of the issue. Two entry points for the selection and implementation of promising alternatives and options are proposed: (i) access to social services and (ii) sustainable natural resource management. These two entry points are chosen according to the existing research priorities in the JACS WAF and CAS. This will allow extending the current achievements in the different regions by broadening the perspective towards a more comprehensive understanding of implementation, e.g. of novel land use arrangements (pastoral code, new collective institutions) or adapted social and economic services (e.g. joint animal and human vaccinations, commodity chains). (abridged text)