Liao, Chuan

Rangelands, covering 54% of the Earth’s terrestrial surface, are experiencing severe degradation worldwide, with overgrazing being one of the primary drivers. Collective action has shown potential in improving natural resource management, contributing to the wellbeing of both people and the environment. Based on household survey data conducted between 2020 and 2022 in northern China, this study estimates the effects of collective action on herders’ livestock herding behavior. Employing propensity score matching to address self-selection bias, the finding indicates that collective action can reduce overgrazing, with joint management across herders being more effective than cooperatives. Furthermore, herders who have received limited educated, have low incomes and have family members in government leadership positions tend to benefit more from collective action. Additionally, the primary mechanism by which collective action mitigates overgrazing is through enhanced rotational grazing. The findings are relevant for addressing rangeland degradation globally, and shed light on creating a more inclusive society in pastoral communities through enhanced collective action.