Community - based management of environmental challeges in Latin America COMET-LA.

Latin America is home to an outstanding stock of natural resources, most of them traditionally managed by local communities. At present, new uses and users are leading to unsustainable management of resources and creating conflicts and competition for the use and property of these resources. Local communities face different problems in maintaining and developing their livelihoods. Research specifically adapted to their needs is required, to have a clear understanding of current and potential situations, critical factors and possible effects, but social perceptions of the change and challenges are also essential factors.