Diverse Perspectives on Ethnobotany and Environmental Conservation

Ethnobotany, the study of the relationship between people and plants, has long served as a bridge between culture, nature, and science. It is a discipline that sheds light on how indigenous and local communities have utilized plants for medicinal, nutritional, spiritual, and ecological purposes throughout history. In the face of accelerating environmental challenges, the need for conservation has never been more urgent, and this intersection between traditional knowledge and modern conservation practices offers vital insights into sustaining our planet’s biodiversity. “Diverse Perspectives on Ethnobotany and Environmental Conservation” brings together scholars and academicians various fields to explore the rich diversity of ethnobotanical knowledge and its critical role in environmental conservation. From indigenous practices that have maintained ecological balance for centuries to contemporary strategies for preserving endangered plant species, this book highlights the profound wisdom embedded in cultural practices and examines how these traditions can inform modern sustainability efforts. The contributions in this volume are diverse in both scope and approach. Some chapters explore the ethical dimensions of ethnobotanical research and its implications for indigenous rights, while others present case studies of successful collaborations between scientists and local communities in preserving plant diversity. Furthermore, the book delves into the emerging field of integrating traditional ecological knowledge with contemporary conservation science to address the pressing threats of climate change, habitat loss, and over-exploitation of natural resources. In the acknowledgments section of the book “Diverse Perspectives on Ethnobotany and Environmental Sustainability,” the authors express their heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to the creation of the book. Special recognition is given to the Centre for Social and Environmental Research (CSER), Ranchi, for their financial support, which played a crucial role in enabling the publication of this important work. The contributions of the various authors, who shared their expertise and research through their articles, are also deeply appreciated for enriching the content of the book. Their diverse perspectives provide valuable insights into the intersection of ethnobotany and environmental sustainability. This collective effort highlights the importance of collaboration and the role of research in addressing global environmental challenges. The book is a product of these collective efforts and is a tribute to the importance of both cultural and ecological preservation for sustainable futures.