A Value-Based Approach in Managing the Human-Geosphere Relationship: the Case of Lake Turgoyak (Southern Urals, Russia)

We describe what we term a “geoethical dilemma” around Lake Turgoyak (Southern Urals, Russia) utilizing semi-structured interviews, oral stories, field visits and a literature review. Lake Turgoyak is a protected natural monument and a place sacred for Old Orthodox Believers and the Bashkirian people in the Southern Urals (Russia), where recreational activities have a negative environmental impact on the lake. Our research addresses how credibility and leadership affect the human-environment relationship, broadening the perspective that social learning and participation are key to addressing challenges in natural resources governance. The results suggest that a consideration of leadership and geoethical dilemmas can contribute to the body of geoethics and natural resource governability.