Hidden Livelihoods? Natural Resource-Dependent Livelihoods and Urban Development Policy

Abstract

"Natural resources (NRs) and their contribution to livelihoods have been widely explored within the rural context yet have received relatively little attention within the urban context. NRs can, however, contribute significantly, if modestly, to urban livelihoods in a number of often 'hidden' ways. This report explores these 'hidden' livelihoods drawing on frameworks from urban and rural studies to enhance our understanding of the dynamics of urban-based natural resource-related livelihoods. The aim of the paper is to provide: an increased appreciation of the ways in which urban natural resources are used to support urban livelihoods; an enhanced understanding of both the systems that govern access or tenure over these resources and the analytical or conceptual frameworks that can be used to understand them; and creative and innovative thinking about urban livelihoods and options for urban development policy."