This report on alternative livelihood systems for marginal lands was prepared in response to Preparatory Committee for UNCED decision 1/15, on "Soil loss and desertification and drought" of August 1990. The decision inter alia called for "an analysis of alternative sustainable systems of production of marginal lands.

The majority of the people living in dryland areas derive their livelihoods from dryland agriculture and pastoral livestock production. Both cropping and livestock systems are linked togehter in complex ways to minimize risk. The production systems are flexible and can diversify productive activities, as opportunities arise in the wider economic sphere.

The successful adoptation of alternative strategies depends upon their integration into existing livelihood systems. Rural people are both the experimenters with and potential beneficiaries of alternative systems. They should participate fully in all phases of the process, from conception to implementation.