Role of social capital in determining conservation attitude: a case study from Cat Tien National Park, Vietnam

Abstract

The Cat Tien National Park (CTNP) is located in South Vietnam. This park is home to many rare and endemic species. However, Park resources face heavy anthropogenic pressure and some species are vulnerable to extinction. In this context, this study assesses the efficacy of social capital and other socio-economic variables in influencing conservation attitude of local people towards CTNP resources. Using suitable survey tools and regression analysis, we find social capital to be a significant determinant of the overall conservation attitude of locals. All components of social capital, except trust, are significant in explaining one or more indicators of conservation attitude. Among socio-economic variables, education, income and ethnic groups were significant in explaining the overall conservation attitude. We suggest that participatory conservation programmes should incorporate suitable actions for promoting social capital among local people as a part of their institution-building efforts. This may improve institutional stability leading to better resource conservation and improved welfare of local people.

Keywords:

• social capital
• conservation attitude
• protected areas
• South Vietnam
• socio-economic variables