Replanting the BANANA TREE
A Study in Ecologically Sustainable Development
In "Replanting the BANANA TREE" Robert Waddell, the founder of APACE, argues that traditional economic thinking on development must be totally revised to take account of ecological realities, justice and equity.
The banana tree, a multi-purpose plant, stands for self-sufficency; the colonial powers cut down the banana tree in order to turn self-sufficient people into workers on plantations and cash customers for imported goods; to replace independence with dependence.
The same strategy has been followed in post-colonial times, with bad results not only for people but for the environment. In "Replanting the BANANA TREE" Robert Waddell draws from first hand experience as political economist, development educationalist and appropriate technologist to outline a strategy for equitable and ecologically sustainable development.
This book was published by APACE in 1993, but the issues it addresses are just as relevant today. It documented the achievements of Iriri and the some of the development lessons that can be drawn. Copies are available for purchase by contacting APACE.
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