This major book explores commons, lands and rights of usage in common,
traditional and customary practices, and the cultural nature of
'landscapes'. Importantly, it addresses now critical matters of
'cultural severance' and largely unrecognized impacts on biodiversity
and human societies, and implications for conservation, sustainability,
and local economies. The book takes major case studies and perspectives
from around the world, to address contemporary issues and challenges
from historical and ecological perspectives. The book developed from
major international conferences and collaborations over around fifteen
years, culminating 'The End of Tradition?' in Sheffield, UK, 2010. The
chapters are from individuals who are both academic researchers and
practitioners. These ideas are now influencing bodies like the EU,
UNESCO, and FAO, with recognition by major organisations and
stakeholders, of the critical state of the environment consequent on
cultural severance.