This book examines the challenges of sustainably managing and conserving Cordyceps sinensis, a rare species of fungus largely grown in Tibet, currently on the brink of extinction.

As one of the most expensive commodities in the world, particularly valued for its medicinal properties in China, the price of Cordyceps has risen by over 900% since the 1970s. This has made it a very lucrative resource for farmers, many of whom are struggling to produce sufficient food to sustain themselves. Naturally, this has led to overharvesting and, coupled with the impacts of climate change, the crop itself is now at risk. Rarely discussed in Western literature, this book provides a novel examination of Cordyceps, looking into the necessary changes needed to sustainably manage and conserve this important crop. Drawing on extensive field work conducted in Qinghai-Tibet, the book analyzes the supply chain, identifying key issues around production and considering the role and impact of relevant stakeholders. It discusses the necessary changes needed for a sustainable supply change, particularly to stop long-term overharvesting. The book then discusses the role of policy and the institutional management of this resource in China, as one of the main producers and consumers. It analyzes current policy instruments and argues for a more coherent policy which is better orientated towards conservation and sustainable management, rather than solely market regulation.

This book will be of great interest to students and scholars of natural resource management, environmental conservation, environmental policy, and sustainable supply chain management.