Singh, Subrata

As a society, we are faced with a critical dilemma. While the current pattern of economic growth is getting increasingly unsustainable (and more so ecologically), low or negative rates of economic growth can have adverse social impacts. The efforts designed for economic well-being seem counterproductive to the poor and marginalised and make them more vulnerable. The inexplicable damage being done to the rural infrastructure (land and water) along with the complete lack of recognition of the traditional knowledge and siloed thinking has further pushed the country deep into the swamp of environmental degradation.

The central question being explored in the paper is if an alternative economic model (circular rather than linear) is necessary! Especially when common resources are degrading at an alarming rate; impacting the very survival of the dependent communities. The paper explores how circularity principles when applied in market models lead to the shortening of value chains (burning less fossil fuel), conservation and governance of commons (forest, water bodies), enhancing dignity among smallholder producers, and recognising women as a key stakeholder in economic activities and being the contributors to family incomes.

The paper further stresses the point (through extensive field research) that an alternative model emulating the principle of circularity is essential for the survival of the rural economy. More so for countries where the predominant population lives in rural areas and common resources contribute significantly to their livelihood. It positions ‘Circularity’ as being very fundamental to economic models (and not as an afterthought) that act as a catalyst for the conservation of common resources like forest and water. It provides enough examples as to how marketplaces (built on the principles of circularity) enable conservation while ensuring adequate economic opportunities for the most disadvantaged-like women and tribal.

While various incentive-based mechanisms for nature conservation such as Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) have emerged as the most sought-after top-down mechanisms, these approaches often perpetuate existing power hierarchies by overlooking local governance structures and community participation. This paper investigates the implementation and outcomes of community-based PES schemes in Meghalaya, India, in relation to conservation of community forests. The study analyses outcomes when communities participate in resource management decisions, focusing on conservation results and benefit distribution patterns. Identifying several factors that influence programme implementation, including institutional structures, financial management systems and participation mechanisms, the case study explores the interactions between forest conservation, socio-economic development and cultural practices in the context of community-based PES. Drawing from these findings, the paper evaluates different approaches to PES implementation and presents policy considerations regarding community involvement in the stewardship of shared natural resources. The analysis examines both opportunities and challenges in current community-based PES initiatives, discussing factors that may affect their long-term viability and outcomes.

Keywords: Payment for Ecosystem Services, Community Conservation, Environmental Governance, Sustainable Development Goals, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, India