United States
£ GBP
Detailed and well-researched book which looks at the role of women in sustainable forestry management, with particular reference to Sri Lanka. The link between gender, environment and development is a relatively new one, but the author makes a substantial link between women and forestry.
Wickranasinghe's research shows how women use the forests, and what their interest is in protecting it. Using two detailed village case studies, she explores historical trends that have led to deforestation and women's loss of control over resources in Sri Lanka. She goes on to examine the present day structure, polices and strategies of the state forestry sector, particulary concentrating on timber production. The author ends by arguing that rural women are the potential planners and designers of forestry development, and could change what she calls the present negative situation.
