Some results and experiences

Although analyses are still ongoing, a varied range of results is already available from the different surveys, including databases, reports, a model, and 'lessons learned' in general.

BOLIVIA

The community of Luz de América participated enthusiastically in the survey.

• People stated they enjoyed the process. They especially noted how the creation of a map of their surroundings made them aware of their own, previously unarticulated knowledge.
• Understanding and communication between Reserve authorities and the community has reportedly improved.
• Overall, the settlement itself and the agricultural fields are considered to be the most important land units. Despite that, 'wild products' (from plants and animals) still score 65% against 35% in terms of the importance of 'cultivated/domesticated products'.
• Forest is not greatly valued as a source of food. It scores highest for construction materials, products for sale, handicrafts and medicines.
• Interestingly, forest was scored as likely to be more important in the future (45%) than in the present (25%).

Some sample results from the PDM exercises

A detailed description of research methods and results of the Bolivia survey (in Spanish) can be found in the report Luz de América: Comunidad y Biodiversidad Amazónica. Zapata, D.M.O., González, L.A., Larrea, J.F., González, B., Silva, E., Arellanos, A., Meo, S. and Jong, W. de (2003). CIFOR, Bogor, Indonesia.

The team also produced the educational VCD 'Luz de América: Comunidad y Biodiversidad Amazónica' , a 30 minute Spanish language video showing the whole range of survey activities.

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