Genetic diversity

The international debate on biodiversity has resulted in renewed interest in the role of farmers and local communities in the management of natural resources and crop genetic diversity. In recent years it has become apparent that the local crop diversity in the South is threatened by the promotion of modern varieties promising higher yields. A book entitled Cultivating knowledge reflects new approaches and concepts in the field of conservation and the development of local crops. Case studies from Africa, Latin America and Asia address these issues from different angles examining the significance of local knowledge, and documenting new approaches and methodologies. The book looks at the policy issues raised by the expansion of agribusiness, and the need to consider the interests of small-scale farmers. Cultivating knowledge: genetic diversity, farmer experimentation and crop research by Walter de Boef, Kojo Amanor and Kate Wellard with Anthony Bebbington 1993 206pp ISBN 1 853389 204 9 Pbk price UKL 8.95 ISBN 1 85339 207 3 Hbk price UKL 22.50 IT Publications Ltd 103-105 Southampton Row London WC1B 4HH. UKCultivating knowledge: genetic diversity, farmer experimentation and crop research by Walter de Boef, Kojo Amanor and Kate Wellard with Anthony Bebbington 1993 206pp ISBN 1 853389 204 9 Pbk price UKL 8.95 ISBN 1 85339 207 3 Hbk price UKL 22.50 IT P