This course provides an integrated understanding of the principles, practices, and challenges involved in the sustainable management of natural resources. It focuses on four key resource areas — forests, water, wildlife, and land — which are critical to ecological balance, economic development, and human well-being.
Students will examine the ecological functions of these resources, patterns of human utilization, and the environmental, social, and economic issues arising from overexploitation and mismanagement. Emphasis is placed on sustainable management approaches, conservation strategies, policy frameworks, and community-based resource management.
Through lectures, case studies, and fieldwork, students will gain knowledge and skills to analyze natural resource issues, propose solutions, and contribute to sustainable development.
📌 Key Topics Covered
Introduction to natural resource management concepts and principles
Forest resources: functions, threats, and sustainable forestry practices
Water resources: hydrological cycles, watershed management, water use conflicts, conservation
Wildlife resources: biodiversity conservation, protected area management, human–wildlife conflicts
Land resources: soil conservation, land use planning, sustainable agriculture
Policy, governance, and legal frameworks in resource management
Community participation and indigenous knowledge in resource management
Climate change impacts on natural resources
Tools and techniques for resource assessment (GIS, remote sensing, environmental indicators)
🎯 Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
Explain the ecological, social, and economic importance of forests, water, wildlife, and land.
Assess major challenges affecting the sustainable use of natural resources.
Apply principles of integrated resource management in solving practical problems.
Analyze policy and governance frameworks influencing natural resource use.
Design strategies for sustainable management and conservation at local and national levels.
