An approach to the identification, characterization and evaluation of wild nature resources

Abstract

Wild Nature is a quality exhibited by some ecosystem resources, and which is valued by many people. It is however problematic for managers who need to be able to identify where it occurs, characterize both the beneficiaries and the resource elements which provide benefit and evaluate the relative worth compared with other use options. This dissertation, tests the analysis which the disciplines of ethics, economics, ecology and humanism can provide against criteria of sufficiency. None are found to provide analysis which is on its own satisfactory. A multidisciplinary approach is then developed and posed as a set of information needs nested within a driving methodology. The approach is applied using Lake Alexandrina as a case study, and tested against a priori criteria.