Abstract

Economic and ecological problems arising from rapid depletion of natural resources and accumulation of pollutants have led to the re-examination of growth-oriented strategies of development pursued by both developed and developing countries. The latter group particularly faces a dilemma as to how to balance the objectives of poverty eradication and environmental conservation. Ecodevelopment is suggested as an appropriate alternative where development and conservation objectives are integrated. Interpretation and understanding of concepts differ and to avoid ambiguity. It is necessary to clearly define the term ecodevelopment. The basic issues are we going to deviate from conventional approaches to development and pursue a socially, economically and ecologically viable alternative or are we to stick on to traditional approaches and use 'ecodevelopment' as an embellishment to conceal the real issues? As a radically new approach, putting into practice the principles of