Areas of work

GRADEAreas of workNatural Resources, Extractive Industries and Social Conflict

Natural Resources, Extractive Industries and Social Conflict

Promoting the environmentally and socially sustainable management of natural resources is one of the biggest challenges facing the countries of the Andean-Amazonian region—in particular, Peru. The high frequency of conflict that accompanies extractive activities, the growing deforestation of the Amazon rainforest, and recurring water scarcity due to climate change are just some examples of the multiplicity of challenges that the Andean-Amazonian region faces in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In light of these challenges, our research analyzes the existing social, economic, and political conditions that hinder the sustainable management of resources through a territorial and interdisciplinary approach. We then use these studies to propose public policy recommendations for the better governance of resources Our studies have contributed to the analysis of several specific topics such as territorial management policies, institutional changes linked to small and large-scale mining development, the relationship between land tenure systems and sustainable pasture management, and policies governing access to water in the context of extractive activities and climate change. We have also conducted evaluations of resource management projects and policies such as conservation initiatives and sustainable agriculture in the Amazon.