In fifty developing countries, which contain half of the total human population of the world, there is a heavy dependence on draught animals as an energy source. These animals are used for agriculture operations in 52% of cultivated areas of the world, as well as for hauling 25 million carts. This situation is likely to continue for at least another fifty years. The work performed annually by these draught animals would require 20 million tonnes of petroleum, valued at US$6 billion, if it were performed by motorised vehicles.

Hemmed in by intensive agricultural and industrial activity, pastoralists are finding less room to carry on their activities. This could upset the delicate balance of agricultural ecosystems.

In Rajkot district village, pastoralists trade manure for fodder and sustain a healthy way of farming.

The Netherlands has three levels of governance -- national, provincial (12 provinces) and municipal (650 municipalities). The national government determines environmental policy and the ministry of