The Role of Local Communities in Natural and Environmental Resource Management

Rural communities in developing countries have relied on natural resources to support daily livelihoods, thus conserving biodiversity and when these environmental resources are mis-managed, it usually births negative impacts and, in some form, posing a developmental problem. Human wellbeing and its implications pertaining to environmental resource management and exposure to environmental threats have caused many to lose their means of livelihood, generating a high degree of poverty that remains a serious problem as global demand for natural resources increases. Participation of different sects; (local communities inclusive) has shown to be critical to a nation’s ability to maximize the potential of its available resources. Maximization or management of these natural resources generally leads to greater economic development of the nation; as man’s well- being and maintenance of his livelihood can be said to be inextricably linked to the natural resource base. As a result, there is a worldwide concern for natural resource protection and conservation in order for man to continue to support his livelihood. It is in the light of the foregoing that the role of local communities in natural and environmental resources management is pivotal. This study assessed the threatened natural resources as a result of man’s different activities and urged the local communities in Nigeria to prioritize natural resource conservation. This indicated that industrialisation and its attendant urbanisation have had a severe impact on man's environment, including loss of biodiversity, increased greenhouse warming, desertification, drought, water and air pollution, and hazardous waste accumulation. It is considered that well-managed natural resources will provide economic, social, visual, and aesthetic benefits that will ensure the residents' sound and qualitative health. Using the doctrinal method of research in line with primary and secondary based sources, this research would address the above issues, analyse its findings and proffering recommendations.