Ecological marginalization in rural areas: Actors, impacts, responses

Ecological marginalization entails the take-over of local natural resources by powerful private and/or state interests, and the gradual or immediate disorganization of the ecosystem via withdrawals and additions. The disruption of biological processes, loss of local people's resource base and the generation of socio-economic and public health risks are the inevitable results of this process. This paper aims to shed light on the consequences of contentious environmental actions that have been taken in recent decades. Using illustrative examples from across the globe, the paper examines the factors leading to ecological marginalization, the consequences of this process for the natural and social system, as well as local responses.