This paper presents a discussion on some design principles of local collective action institutions, using a case study from India. Various potential conflicts in the functioning of such institutions are explored. Does group homogeneity and social capital foster collective action? This is...

This introduction to a Special Issue provides a conceptual framework connecting the themes of human security, well-being and human development, and sustainability. Inter-connections between each of these three themes are possible. The connecting concepts are freedoms, rights, responsibilities,...

This paper examines the scope for a rights-based perspective on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by focusing on right to water. The paper adapts Hohfeldian framework of elements of a right developed by Wenar. According to this, a right should be interpreted in terms of powers, privileges,...

Improving the urban environment in developing countries is now an emerging priority. In that context, valuation is an important source of information to the policy-makers. This paper discusses the application of a multiple choice contingent valuation method to improvements in water supply in...

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The concept of sustainable consumption (SC) has been proposed as a way of operationalising sustainable development (SD). However, until now, in view of the difficulties in conceptualising SC, emphasis has been placed mainly on a pragmatic approach. In an a-conceptual and pragmatic account of SC,...

The impact of environmental change on the incidence of poverty through the changes in the livelihood options is expected to be significant. The resilience and condition of environment and ecosystems to deliver services within vulnerable regions is quite often crucial for ensuring livelihood...