Title
Wildlife Conservation and Cultural Conservation in Papua New Guinea
Author(s)
Cuthbert RJ, Kagl JP, Kuange J, Whitmore N, Sinclair JR
Published
2014
Abstract
The interaction between biological diversity and cultural diversity is nowhere more apparent than in Papua New Guinea, where the country's rich diversity of animal and plants--estimated to be around 8% of the world's terrestrial biodiversity--is matched by the extraordinary diversity of cultures with more than 800 languages recognized in the country. These distinct cultures utilize the birds, mammals and plants around them for food, medicines, materials and shelter, but also draw on this biological diversity for the cultural beliefs that underpin the country's diverse cultures. This relationship between nature and culture reaches its visual peak in the traditional costumes and outfits that are worn at cultural events in Papua New Guinea. The extravagant head-dresses and other items made from feathers of various species of parrots, birds of paradise and skins from tree kangaroos and other marsupial mammals are famous throughout Papua New Guinea and beyond, and are strongly identified with the country's image.
Full Citation
Cuthbert RJ, Kagl JP, Kuange J, Whitmore N, Sinclair JR (2014). Wildlife Conservation and Cultural Conservation in Papua New Guinea. Goroka, Papua New Guinea: Wildlife Conservation Society, Papua New Guinea, 1-64.
Access Full Text
Back
DMX3886300000