October 2, 2013
Although called the landscape approach, Dr. Bennett presented that this approach goes beyond defining geographical areas.
It encompasses not just land and its resources but also the community; and, it is the participation of the local community which is key to a successful landscape approach.
I found this to be a significant time as this was the first time to listen about how the locals are not interested in sustainability initiatives, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions. At the time, it made sense and yet it did not make sense because, I viewed sustainability to be important. How could one not see the importance of being sustainable, economically, environmentally… However, I have come to realize that I thought in such a manner because I had placed my priorities first, and also above others’ priorities.
Dr. Bennett introduced the concept of connecting to the community, by selecting a resource that was relevant to the community in the region: in the case of Sumatra, Indonesia, it was water. The “benang biru”, or the “blue thread”, was the water resource which brought the community, locals, government, together.  By selecting a relevant resource, the community was able to actively participate in various projects which resulted not only in an improvement in living but also empowered the people to consciously take part. An example shared was in the realm of social pressure, where
pressure was placed on those who illegally logged from the forest surrounding the blue threads.
This participation also took into consideration “social jealousy”, and area that very much exists, but I have not thought of before as something that could be incorporated and addressed through community projects.
This inclusive landscape approach has changed my perspective on how development can be approached through the stress placed on the importance of active participation by the community and viewing it as a key element in achieving a continued positive outcome in rural development.