Implementing Commons and Community Institutions

Summary

Commons make farming systems resilient by augmenting water and nutrient flows, they are a vital link in hydrological processes, impacting recharge of ground water as well as regulating the surface runoff, and arresting soil erosion. Common lands harbour myriad forms of biodiversity and where these adjoin protected areas, the commons provide additional habitat and corridors for diverse species, and shift biotic pressure off the protected areas. They also serve as 'sinks', absorbing harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.