Abstract
As in other parts of the world today, the tropical forest located in Xishuangbanna has decreased rapidly in the past several decades. The loss of the forest has brought with it environmental degradation, and campaigns for preservation of the environment and rational development have begun recently. In spite of this situation, if you were to visit the Tai village in Xishuangbanna, you would be fascinated by the bio-diversity that still exists there. The paddy fields, trees, bamboos, tea fields, and various kinds of plants all signify a natural vitality. An analysis of this local ecological situation is significant for possible restoration of the environment in the rest of Xishuangbanna.
This paper examines ecological utilization in a Tai village. The techniques of occupations are considered, and farming “models” relating to the forest are investigated. Through an analysis of these farming models, the paper examines the Tai people's view of their environment.
Initially, traditional agroforestry cultivation is studied. The models explored include : mixed cultivation of camphor trees and tea trees, cultivating indigo plants in forest clearings, and cultivating siamese senna (Cassia siamea) for firewood. After investigating the actual environmental situation of these models, the economic and ecological benefits of them are discussed.
Homegardening is also examined. Through an analysis of the kinds, distribution and uses of the various plants, the economic and ecological benefits of the homegarden are also investigated.
Further, the holy forest linked to Animism is studied. Through an investigation of the social-cultural background of the holy forest, the relationship between the villagers and the forest is explored.
In conclusion, the paper argues that agroforestry cultivation, homegardening and protection of the holy forest are excellent traditional techniques of land use. These "models" share a common characteristic of sustainable use of a natural resource, and demonsrate that the forest is protected as the most important natural basis of the village's existence. Tai people both use and preserve nature, and this can be regarded as the essence of their natural view of the environment and the world around them. Based on this indigenous view, Tai people seek to coexist with nature. Finally, the paper points out that the example of the Tai people's practice is an excellent "model" for restoring the environment in Xishuangbanna.
