In the process of protecting the giant panda, the needs of the community should not be neglected or overlooked. This is something commendable as organizations such as the WWF and the Chinese government have recognised that communities’ decisions are equally important in determining the success of conservational efforts. The WWF and the provincial governments in Sichuan, Gansu and Shaanxi have played a big part in engaging the communities by initiating community development projects. Some activities include providing alternative sources of income so as to reduce damaging activities such as poaching and logging. To reduce the demand for logging, alternative energy sources such as wood-saving stoves were also introduced to the villages15.
This shows great understanding of community barriers to behavioural changes. Hence by lowering the barriers, in this case income worries, the community may be more likely to engage in pro-environmental behaviours and support any campaigns that come along.