Conservation Refugees

What if humans aren’t always bad for their own ecosystems?

Every year, the Van Gujjars migrate from the lowlands of India into the Himalayas with their herds of buffaloes. (Photo by Michael Benanav)

“I had always … thought that national parks can only be a good thing. And I had never really imagined that people had been living in them.”

— Michael Benanav

A lot of conservation efforts focus on the negative impacts people have on the environment. Humans are seen as an invasive species, and their presence is assumed to upset the natural balance.

But what if it’s not so clearcut?

On this episode, we explore what happens when conservation efforts end up having side effects that are, at best, questionable.

My guest is Michael Benanav, author of the book Himalaya Bound, which follows a group of nomads in India who are desperately clinging to an ancient way of life.

The Van Gujjars live in perfect harmony with nature, playing a vital role in their own ecosystem. But they’re under threat — ironically, due to conservation efforts.

Want to read more about the Van Gujjar’s? Here’s where you can find Michael Benanav’s book Himalaya Bound.

Special thanks to Eric Mack for production help on this episode. Eric is a producer for Warm Regards, a podcast about the warming of the planet.

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