Application of Ecosystem Modelling in Environmental Management in Kenya
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Date
2006
Authors
Olukoye, Godfrey Alati
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
School of Environmental Studies and Human Sciences,
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Ecosystems are dynamic entities made up of several interactive biotic and
abiotic factors that determine their production and productivity levels.
Equally complex are the ecological processes that govern ecosystem structure
and function, the inherent variability in biophysical processes and the interactions
between ecological, economic and social processes. Models that seek to guide
policy decisions need to capture this complexity. Equally important, managers
should give due consideration to the prevailing economic, socio-cultural, legal
and political factors that may be relevant when making appropriate management
decisions.
Although the management of ecosystems is difficult, various models have been
developed that aid in decision making for sustainable ecosystem management.
For example, conceptual models that incorporate the interactions of climate, plants
and herbivory are important in understanding land use dynamics. Further,
establishing a balance in ecological and economic functioning of resources such
as vegetation in an ecosystem is difficult but ecosystem models have the capability
to simulate such complex scenarios to arrive at appropriate resource management.
Simulations help in the diagnosis of strengths and weaknesses of an ecosystem
and compare it with other alternatives so that improvements may be prescribed
(Upton, 1989). Despite this advantage, simulations and their use in resource
management especially in developing countries is rare
Description
Book chapter