ABSTRACT

This paper focuses on tradoecology of traditional commuities. Using the Yoruba as a case study, it examines the usefulness of tradoecology as a tool in studying the ecological anthropology of traditional communities. It aims for a sustainable environment in the face of on-going monumental destruction of the planet. Data reveal that the world is inundated with severe ecological problems with apocalyptic proportions. Under this pathetic condition, the research notes that traditional communities, like the Yoruba are worst hit as they lack the needed modern scientific means to confront the menace. The paper identifies and proposes tradoecology as eco-friendly and as a most appropriate mechanism for sustaining the environment. Methodologically, the study engages in ethnographic fieldwork in parts of Yorubaland, which are considered as pristine traditional communities to gain firsthand knowledge of tradoecology and thereby build up fundamental points on ecological anthropology of the people. Findings indicate that Yorubaland has immense traditional ecological mechanisms, which can ameliorate the gamut of ecological degradation confronting humanity. The paper concludes that the study of tradoecology and ecological anthropology of the Yoruba portends great value to anthropological and ecological studies.