Developing Innovative Approaches for Mitigating Human-Wildlife Conflicts in Protected Areas and Buffer Zones

Abstract

Conflicts between humans and wildlife (HWCs) are an emerging conservation challenge in buffer zones, as human encroachment into these areas affects ecosystems and threatens both wildlife and humans. This paper examines new approaches to address these conflicts, but it is oriented towards developing measures that create sustainable solutions that satisfy both conservation and local people. Its primary goal is to find solutions and strategies to curb the human-wildlife contact and increase community participation in the conservation activities. The study uses a mixed-methodology, including field surveys, stakeholder interviews, and a case study of areas with high HWCs. The findings indicate that a balanced approach combining technological interventions (e.g., wildlife tracking and early warning systems), community-based management, and enhanced policy frameworks will be essential to mitigate the situation. Also, it is important to develop a a positive attitude towardtowards wildlife conservation through education and community involvement to minimize conflicts. The paper provides a conclusion and recommendations, including habitat restoration, wildlife corridors, and compensation schemes, to mitigate the economic losses arising from such conflicts. These techniques, which, based on local contexts, represent an elaborate platform for reducingfor reducing HWCs within protected and buffer zones.