"Getting the
message out"
The Malinau survey provided significant insight into "what is important
to communities living in tropical forest landscapes”. The MLA team wanted to
give back this information to the Malinau communities and help them
communicate their needs to other local stakeholders.
We first
prepared four posters and a set of
playing cards for that purpose
and later produced a film. Our information also contributed to the new
environmental education curriculum for the district.
Posters
A set of
posters that contain a wealth of information was produced: we considered the
posters as an 'open book' - a colorful series of presentations that do not need
to be read in one go. Local communities were consulted several times during
their preparation, to make sure their views were presented well. They appreciate
that they are called 'the experts' in the posters! Text and graphics are as easy
as possible to understand.
Around 800
sets were distributed to communities in the district, local government,
companies, conservation organizations and environmental NGOs active in East
Kalimantan.
The
usefulness of these materials was evaluated through a survey on conservation
knowledge and perceptions before and after receiving the materials. Based on
interviews, the assessment showed that the posters have had a genuine influence
on all stakeholder groups. (see
Sheil and Padmanaba 2006)
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