In an earlier post (A Sabbatical in Ecuador), I discussed some early stage research in Cajas National Park. I’m optimistic that this research will get a boost through partnership with the University of Cuenca. With researchers there, I am discussing some research collaborations with students interested in studying social-ecological systems and collaboration and conflict with the national park and its neighbors. This has particular relevance as Cajas National Park is part of a larger Man and Biosphere Reserve (Biosfera Macizo del Cajas – see website here) and the importance of buffer zones and creating the capacity to live sustainably in the broader landscape. Here’s a map to show the area we are talking about:
As a means to build capacity towards this research, I am delivering a presentation tomorrow on resilience and social-ecological systems:
michaelschoon 