Environmental resources, population and sustainability: Evidence from Zimbabwe

This paper examines four issues central to the relationships between enviro nmental resources, population and sustainability in Zimbabwe. First, the co nceptualisation of population-resource interrelationships and sustainabilit y. Second, the legal basis of land use practices and origins of land use co nflict within and between Zimbabwe's main population groups. Third, the dem ographic threats to sustainable resource development and the impact of the Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs) on rural and urban communities. Fou rth, the dynamics of population change and environmental resource use const raints including resettlement and land redistribution or reform programmes. It is concluded that the relationships between environmental degradation a nd population pressure are complex. Sustainable environmental resource use to supply basic Livelihoods can be achieved if appropriate technical expert ise or backup is provided to the population. Developing and implementing su stainable resource development strategies in Zimbabwe requires attention to socio-economic and political challenges.