THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF PROTECTING NATURAL RESOURCES

Madagascar is home to over 90% of endemic plant and animal species. Unfortunately, animals and plants are threatened with extinction due to anthropic pressures. Consequently, action has been taken to ensure the survival of these species, including the classification of certain zones as protected areas, such as national parks. This study attempts to assess the socio-economic impact of natural resource conservation actions on the population living along the Marojejy National Park. According to the literature review and the results of the field survey in the three villages of Mandena, Manantenina and Ambohimanarina, the study's findings show that, despite the food shortages and low incomes that drive local residents to exploit natural resources, they are aware of the importance of conserving the park insofar as it improves their quality of life and ensures their ecological, economic and socio-cultural survival. It was therefore with the aim of uncovering shortcomings and proposing alternatives that we decided to carry out such a study.