|
|
|
|
|
|
Gunderson, L., and C.S. Holling (Eds.), 2002. Panarchy: understanding transformations in human and natural systems. 450p. Island Press, Washington, D.C., USA.
|
| Summary |
While the concept of sustainability has been embraced by nations around the world as well as international governing bodies, the steps to achieving it have become mired in a sea of reports and growing lists of sustainability indicators. Although few people doubt the high-degree of complexity inherent in social-ecological systems, the simplicity of the approach one adopts toward understanding such systems may well determine our success in achieving global environmental sustainability. A new theory is presented in Panarchy that offers a mechanism for understanding transformations within human and natural systems. Panarchy represents a hierarchical structure in which natural systems are linked together in adaptive cycles of growth, accumulation, restructuring, and renewal. By examining complex natural systems within this structure it should be possible to identify instances within the adaptive cycles where the system is most receptive to actions that create positive change and enhance sustainability. With an aim to keeping the approach to understanding complex systems "as simple as possible, but no simpler", Panarchy holds the promise for cracking the code that will enable us to effectively enhance resilience and sustainability in the very systems, e.g., socio-political, ecological, institutional, on which humanity's long-term future rests. The book offers a thorough exploration of the theory as it applies to a diversity of systems, encompassing ecological principles, economic drivers, local knowledge, and the management of institutions. Contributions by some of the most original thinkers in the area of resilience and adaptive change in social-ecological systems are seamlessly linked together to create an invaluable resource for anyone grappling with the challenges of creating a healthy, just, and sustainable world. |
| Keywords |
panarchy, scale, resilience, hierarchy |
| Author(s) or Editor(s) |
Gunderson, L., and C.S. Holling (Eds.) |
| Publication Year |
2002 |
This object added Dec. 10, 2002 by Allyson Quinlan
|
|
|
|
Copyright 2010 The Resilience Alliance.
|
