INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE IN MANAGEMENT AND EXPLOITATION OF FOREST RESOURCES OF THE BANA ETHNIC COMMUNITY IN VAN CANH DISTRICT, BINH DINH PROVINCE

DOI: 10.18173/2354-1067.2025-0046

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge reflects how communities interact with and adapt to their natural and social environments. The article applies the method of analysis, synthesis, field surveys, and interviews to study the current status of indigenous knowledge of the Bana ethnic community in Van Canh district, Binh Dinh province, in relation to forest resource exploitation for livelihood development. The results show that the Bana possess rich indigenous knowledge in forest classification, rules of forest clearance, and the use of forest products. These are valuable cultural values that need to be preserved and conserved, especially conventions and customary laws that are considered “common conduct” rules contributing significantly to stabilizing social order and developing the community