In search of sustainability : global perspective on marginality, technology, politics and planning of land use

Land is the most important natural resource, upon which all human activity is based since time immemorial, is land. It is a primary resource and its utilization has always been the focal theme in understanding the historical development of various civilizations in the world. Increasing the load of the billions of population, the importance of studies and research on land utilization have become an urgent need to reduce the regional imbalances in development and to attain the sustainable development through the enhancement in global food security and human habitations. It is well-known fact that whole land available in the world is not suitable for utilization. Hence, it is visualized that how land can be put to its proper use according to its potential and capability. Analysis of the Utilization and management of land resources in the world is very much necessary because it ensures the best possible advantages of land in an enduring manner to its people. Therefore, it is believed that land resource show a reciprocal relationship between the prevailing ecological conditions and men in a particular region. There is an imperative need to put in place an integrated mechanism capable of responding effectively to the challenges of managing our scarce land resources.

Unprecedented population pressures and demands of society on scarce land, water and biological resources and the increasing degradation of these resources are affecting the stability and resilience of our ecosystems, environment and civilisation. Globally the expansion of human settlements and infrastructure, intensification of agriculture, and expansion of agriculture into marginal areas and fragile ecosystems emphasizes the need for integrated planning and management of land resources.

This book is an outcome of the valuable contributions made by eminent scientists and research scholars who have been striving to develop alternative strategies, solutions and models for sustainable development of land resources through research, screening, monitoring and experiments varying from regional to global level. This edition would be of immense use to the policy-makers, environmentalists, ecologists, academician research scholars and people in general concerned with land resources, ecology and environment.