Suchergebnisse

Biodiversity encompasses different constructions of 'nature', 'economy' and 'livelihood' that contain tensions between different sets of social and ethical concerns, economic or political preferences, scientific and technological systems, traditions and knowledge. Biodiversity Policy, therefore, is an important space where the competing dynamics of these processes can be observed. Using a constructivist approach, this literature review identifies and analyses particular variables that influence policy formulation in the context of India's two main biodiversity policies: The Biodiversity Act and the National Biodiversity Strategy Action Plan. The dependant model of the overall analytical framework is to explain participatory policy formulation with regard to biodiversity and the goal achievement of the actors involved. The goal of this paper is to identify the mechanisms of influence that explain a distinct process of policy formulation. These mechanisms of influence are identified first as norm diffusion through regimes - specifically the role of policy entrepreneurs and framing exercises, cultural and institutional structures-, and second, as domestic actors operating within an advocacy coalition. The research is based on expert interviews with key researchers and policy makers. The research attempts to capture the dynamic movement and interpretation of ideas as they move between the international and domestic spheres. This paper is both theoretical and empirical, as it brings in initial results from the field. It elucidates how policy processes have been constructed in certain ways and are influenced both by the international context and ideational components of domestic policy networks.

Abstract
Food consumption patterns and practices are undergoing changes in the mega-cities of South and Southeast Asia. Based on a qualitative, comparative case study, this article examines food consumption practices among middle-class households in Bangalore and Metro Manila. We demonstrate how taste preferences, shaped by and shaping food consumption practices, directly relate to increases in meat consumption, food packaging and household food waste—all areas of environmental significance. Taste preferences, which evolved over time, are explained through three inter-related dimensions: (a) the competencies involved in preparing food or eating out; (b) the material dimension of consumption, or products available in sites of food consumption; and (c) the different meanings attached to what makes for a tasty meal. The differences and similarities in food consumption practices between each research site provide insights into how food consumption practices might shift towards more sustainable pathways in Bangalore and Metro Manila, and in similar settings.