Wildlife, Landscape Use and Society: Regional Case Studies in Japan

The Japanese islands are one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, but human impacts have led to many species being endangered. Sugimura evaluates the effects of landscape changes, government policies, and the economy on forest ecosystems and services. He also considers how a variety of wildlife species have been able to survive despite the rapid expansion of Japanese economic activities in the 20th century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Japan's diverse terrestrial natural landscapes and habitats are the subject of a comprehensive analysis in this text. The islands, recognized as a biodiversity hotspot by Conservation International in 2011, boast rich biodiversity but also face the challenges of high population density. Despite the risks posed by human activities, many species have managed to survive, albeit in limited numbers. Sugimura's evaluation explores the impact of landscape changes, government policies, and the economy on Japan's forest ecosystems and services. He also considers how a wide variety of wildlife species have managed to persist, despite the rapid expansion of Japanese economic activities in the 20th century. Additionally, the text identifies correlations between the uniqueness of biodiversity, types of landscape use, and local communities' attitudes toward natural landscapes. This insightful introduction is essential for international environmentalists, geographers, and environmental scientists seeking to understand Japan's unique ecosystems and their interactions with human activities.

Japan's Terrestrial Natural Landscapes and Habitats:
Japan's diverse terrestrial natural landscapes and habitats are a testament to its rich biodiversity. The country's islands, recognized as a biodiversity hotspot by Conservation International in 2011, boast a wide variety of plant and animal species. However, the high population density and human impacts have led to many species being classified as endangered or threatened. Sugimura's analysis explores the effects of landscape changes, government policies, and the economy on Japan's forest ecosystems and services.

Effects of Landscape Changes:
Sugimura examines the impact of landscape changes on Japan's forest ecosystems and services. He notes that urbanization, deforestation, and agricultural expansion have led to the loss of natural habitats and the fragmentation of forested areas. These changes have disrupted the ecological balance and reduced the availability of resources for wildlife species. Sugimura also highlights the role of government policies in shaping landscape changes. He discusses the implementation of conservation measures, such as protected areas and sustainable land use practices, which have aimed to sustain and conserve Japan's biodiversity.

Government Policies and the Economy:
Sugimura delves into the role of government policies and the economy in shaping Japan's landscape. He discusses the impact of economic growth on land use patterns and the development of infrastructure. He also examines the role of government subsidies and incentives in promoting sustainable land use practices and the conservation of natural resources. Sugimura notes that the economy's growth has led to increased demand for resources, which has put pressure on Japan's forest ecosystems. He argues that sustainable development policies and practices are necessary to balance economic growth with environmental conservation.

Survival of Wildlife Species:
Despite the challenges posed by human activities, Japan has managed to sustain a wide variety of wildlife species. Sugimura explores how these species have been able to survive, albeit in limited numbers. He discusses the role of protected areas, such as national parks and wildlife reserves, in providing habitat protection and promoting the survival of endangered species. Sugimura also highlights the importance of conservation efforts by local communities and individuals, who play a crucial role in preserving and managing natural habitats.

Correlations between Biodiversity, Landscape Use, and Attitudes:
Sugimura examines the correlations between biodiversity, landscape use, and attitudes of local communities toward natural landscapes. He notes that the uniqueness of biodiversity, the types of landscape use, and the attitudes of local communities toward natural landscapes are interrelated. He argues that the preservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of natural resources are essential for the long-term survival of wildlife species and the well-being of local communities.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Japan's diverse terrestrial natural landscapes and habitats are a valuable asset to the world. The country's efforts to sustain and conserve these ecosystems and services are crucial for the preservation of biodiversity and the well-being of local communities. Sugimura's analysis provides valuable insights into the effects of landscape changes, government policies, and the economy on Japan's forest ecosystems and services. The text also highlights the importance of protected areas, sustainable land use practices, and the conservation efforts of local communities in sustaining wildlife species and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources. This comprehensive introduction is essential for international environmentalists, geographers, and environmental scientists seeking to understand Japan's unique ecosystems and their experiences with human activities.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367634964