Participatory eco-development projects constitute learning laboratories where methods are worked out and experience is gained and applied there and elsewhere. No two projects are identical since each is adapted to the specific local circumstances and needs. Grassroots communities and villages are the basic entry points for managing natural resources in a sustainable way. Sustainable resource management implies collective environmental action and consultation and ecologically sustainable individual land management. The strong commitment of the population, especially those not reaping immediate benefits, is required to contribute to and maintain longer-term investments and equity.
Sustainable development includes investing in sustainable livelihoods.
Emphasis is therefore on combating poverty by supporting productive activities as well as improving health and promoting education. Effective and representative community institutions are indispensable for ensuring broad-based understanding and action by all community members. The innovative nature of this approach requires maximum flexibility in its implementation and a focus on establishing sustainable processes rather than fulfilling preestablished physical objectives. No two programmes are identical since they respond to specific local conditions and resource management issues. It is also notable that a number of NGOs are involved in the implementation process.