A livelihood is a means of making a living. It encompasses peoples capabilities, assets, income and activities required to secure the necessities of life. A livelihood is sustainable when it enables people to cope with and recover from shocks and stresses (such as natural disasters and economic or social upheavals) and enhance their well-being and that of future generations without undermining the natural environment or resource base. (Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies). Livelihood, or subsistence can be based on traditions that contradict conservation efforts. (compare CMS Art. 5c)