ABSTRACT
This chapter (1) examines the nature of environmental and natural resource problems that influence the sustainability of agricultural development in developing countries, (2) identifies the principal causes of environmental problems in developing countries, and (3) discusses potential solutions to environmental problems in developing countries. Sound environmental management is essential for sustained agricultural development. Yet, environmental degradation is evident throughout the developing world with climate change, soil erosion, silting of rivers and reservoirs, flooding, overgrazing, poor cropping practices, desertification, salinity and waterlogging, deforestation, energy depletion, loss of biodiversity, and chemical pollution. Poverty, population growth, inadequate information, and misguided public policies conspire against solutions. Environmental problems are interrelated, and understanding their causes requires sorting out complex physical, economic, and institutional linkages. Technical solutions are needed, but economic and institutional changes must provide the incentives for behavioral change. As incomes grow, population pressures are reduced, and the demand for environmental protection increases. Economic development can mean more resources for addressing environmental problems, but short-term movement toward development can increase pressure on the environment. Changes in taxes, subsidies, regulations, and other policies can influence local incentives for conservation. Balancing benefits with costs, obtaining local input in the decision-making process, and compensating losers are needed for effective solutions to environmental problems. Environmental issues that are global in nature, such as climate change, will require international cooperation and agreement.
