The development of effective conservation strategies depends upon a sound understanding of the diversity, distribution and ecology of the island’s fauna and flora. ANET therefore conducts a variety of original biological research programmes, including survey of sea turtles and crocodiles since 1977. Another research priority of the Team is to understand the requirements of the islanders to help develop practical and culturally acceptable means of sustainably utilising the islands’ natural resources. ANET researchers typically hold a higher degree in an environmental or economic subject.

Moreover, as the oldest and only environmental NGO with good logistical back-up and a permanent base in the islands, ANET is frequently requested to collaborate in research by visiting representatives of other Indian institutions. This enables the partner organisations to share ideas, expertise and equipment, and ensure that ANET keeps abreast of current research in this region.

Applied Conservation
As a direct outcome of its biological and ethnological research, ANET is able to develop well-informed and workable conservation strategies to help ensure the survival of endangered species and habitats. Such strategies may include protective legislation, designation of protected areas and Reserves, sustainable management schemes, and captive propagation of threatened species. An example of ANET ’s applied conservation projects is the establishment of an arboretum and forest nursery to provide seedlings of indigenous species of trees for reforestation. Besides formulating eco development programmes for local people living around protected areas. Link to publications

For a detailed resume of ANETs research and conservation activities click here. Link to ANETs resume

In addition ANET and its researchers have conducted studies on the flora and fauna, ecology, biodiversity and indigenous people of the islands resulting in numerous publications.

With its expertise in the islands and close working relationship enjoyed with the forest department ANET has been asked to help develop conservation and management action plans for protected areas, sea turtles, crocodiles and wetlands. ANET has conducted training workshops for forest department personnel. In Early February 2001, the Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN), South Asia team, conducted a four day socio-economic monitoring and training workshop at ANET. This workshop was conducted for ANET researchers, people from various departments within the islands, as well as for college students.

ANET has just brought out the Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, for the islands. The State of Envoirment is in its final stages of preparation and will be published soon.