摘要：This study combines qualitative and quantitative research to examine perceptions held byrural households in Northern Ghana regarding the value of traditional ecological knowledge(TEK) in the management of ecosystem services. Key informant interviews (n = 14), householdquestionnaire surveys (n = 195), field observations, and dissemination meetings wereemployed to collect data. Results suggest the regular use of different but interrelated formsof TEK, i.e. taboos and totems, customs and rituals, rules and regulations, and traditionalprotected areas, to manage ecosystem services through existing sociocultural mechanisms.However, household awareness of TEK did not equate with compliance. A wide discrepancyin views on TEK was observed across surveyed households. A generalized linear model (GLM)regression analysis suggests age to be the most significant determinant of TEK awareness andcompliance. Compared with mature and younger adults, the elderly appear more likely to beaware of and comply with characterized TEK systems. Notwithstanding these findings, the useof traditional protected areas as a form of TEK appears to be highly valued by the majority ofsurvey participants. Demand-led research aimed at examining TEK’s role in the face ofchanging socioeconomic and environmental conditions can contribute to the formulationand implementation of policy-relevant strategies.
关键词：Awareness and compliance;ecosystem services;Northern Ghana;management;traditionalecological knowledge
