Conservation Initiatives Around the World by Learning for Nature

PROAmazonía Program

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-08 17:39:02 UTC

The PROAmazonia Program, a joint initiative led by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Ecological Transition and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, with UNDP's support, implemented restoration activities in Napo and Pastaza provinces of Ecuador. Recognizing Indigenous Peoples' and local communities' deep dependence on forests, the program supported bio-enterprises as a means of sustainably managing forest resources.

The BEAST Project

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 13:41:43 UTC

This project is a pioneering road ecology assessment in Pakistan, highlighting the need for wildlife-friendly infrastructure and advocating for nature-positive development. By gathering data on human-wildlife interactions, the study aims to identify critical areas requiring interventions, such as ecological corridors, wildlife crossings, and habitat restoration.

The Lands for Life Program

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 13:44:29 UTC

Smallholder farmers in Metá, Colombia, are partnering with Rare to adopt regenerative agriculture and livestock practices. This holistic approach to land cultivation ensures climate resilience, landscape prosperity, and natural productivity. Through the Lands for Life program, Rare uses behavioral science to mobilize extension agents, local leaders, and farmers, addressing conservation challenges and inspiring community members to become agents of change.

The CIRAWA Project

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 18:55:44 UTC

The CIRAWA Project in West Africa works with communities of smallholder farmers to implement agroecological solutions that restore the relationship between humans and ecosystems. These solutions focus on enhancing ecosystem health, biodiversity, livelihoods, climate resilience, and food security. The project is working with communities in Cape Verde, Ghana, The Gambia, and Senegal.

The Moroccan Biodiversity and Livelihoods Association (MBLA)

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:01:48 UTC

The Moroccan Biodiversity and Livelihoods Association (MBLA) is undertaking various initiatives to conserve biodiversity, preserve local cultural practices, and strengthen livelihoods in High Atlas communities. Their actions focus on strengthening traditional seed systems through a network of seed banks and community nurseries, contributing to the distribution of thousands of seedlings to farmers. MBLA's interventions are based on biodiversity and practice studies conducted with community researchers and scientific actors, as well as workshops and training courses.

The Great Green Wall

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:23:46 UTC

Rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns are impacting communities in dryland Africa, leading to crop failure, food insecurity, and reduced income. The Great Green Wall, an African-led initiative, aims to address these challenges by planting 8,000 kilometers of trees across the Sahel. Tree Aid is contributing to this ambitious project, providing a lifeline to those who rely on the land.

National Chemicals Management Program

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:24:37 UTC

The National Chemicals Management Program launched a small-scale agroecology initiative in the Galapagos Islands. The project conducted workshops and activities to encourage local farmers to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices. This effort aimed to protect the Galapagos' delicate ecosystem while promoting healthier and more environmentally friendly food production.

Biking4Biodiversity

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:25:12 UTC

Biking4Biodiversity was a pioneering advocacy campaign where two ecologists, Hanna Öllös and Jonas Sommer, embarked on a 21,000 km bicycle journey from Germany to Singapore. Their goal was to document the work of over 200 conservationists in 20 countries. Along the way, they highlighted grassroots conservation efforts focused on restoring and preserving natural habitats and local wildlife. By sharing these stories, they raised awareness about the importance of habitat connectivity, the role of local communities in conservation, and the interconnectedness between humans and nature. Extensive media coverage and community engagement amplified the voices of local conservationists, contributing to a broader public understanding of the urgent need to protect biodiversity.

WSL One Ocean

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:25:49 UTC

For surfers and ocean lovers, the ocean is more than just a playground; it's their world. From its waves and beaches to its reefs and high seas, the ocean is their greatest resource and connector. In 2023, they demonstrated their commitment to protecting this invaluable asset for future generations through planting trees and corals, awareness raising, and other local impact projects. Together with the WSL One Ocean coalition, athletes, fans, local organizations, and global partners are inspiring world leaders to take action for a healthier ocean.

Kaa'guy Porá

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:32:47 UTC

The Indigenous Mbya Guaraní community in the Misiones jungle is participating in a sustainable development project that values self-determination, cultural respect, and the preservation of their worldview. The ultimate goal of Project Kaa'guy Porá is the economic sustainability of families and communities through constant and diverse incomes. The project is structured around two main axes: "Human Development" and "Environmental Conservation." It impacts over 5,500 individuals and has been validated by 266 professionals and organizations as a model for a socio-territorial approach. To support this goal, 15 fundable pre-projects have been developed across 12 of the 23 Argentine provinces.

Permian Brazil

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:33:24 UTC

Permian Brazil prioritizes natural rainforest areas that are proven to be under threat of damage or conversion. They assess land rights and legal property, and conduct extensive research on carbon stock, biodiversity, and the needs of local residents. Their experts collaborate with local communities, businesses, regional governments, and other stakeholders in the development of the project. This process forms a multidisciplinary and representative team, which, whenever possible, includes members from the local communities.

Establishing Systems for Sustainable Integrated Land-use Planning across New Britain Island in Papua New Guinea

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:34:48 UTC

Cocoa farmer Mr. Joe Balsilagere from Olaipun Village, Pomio District in East New Britain Province is one of 16 wards across New Britain Island working to manage farming land effectively and limit destruction to biodiversity. This effort is part of the UNDP project “Establishing Systems for Sustainable Integrated Land-use Planning across New Britain Island in Papua New Guinea” (GEF7-FOLUR), a Food Land Use and Restoration (FOLUR) programme funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). UNDP, in partnership with relevant government agencies, is addressing rapid forest loss and promoting sustainable agricultural ecosystems. Key initiatives of the project include land restoration, improvement of agricultural practices, and reduction of CO2 emissions.

theOtherDada-Beirut River Forest

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:35:29 UTC

theOtherDada-Beirut River Forest is a remarkable conservation initiative in Lebanon that exemplifies the power of biomimicry for sustainable urban development. This project aims to revitalize the Beirut River corridor, transforming it into a vibrant green space that benefits both the city and its inhabitants.

Key aspects of the project include urban reforestation, biomimicry, public space revitalization, and community engagement. Through this, theOtherDada-Beirut River Forest has helped improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, and enhance biodiversity. The forest acts as a carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to mitigate climate change. This initiative offers valuable lessons for other cities seeking to create greener, more resilient futures.

Londji Women’s Mangrove Restoration Initiative

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:36:06 UTC

Led by the Association des Femmes pour la Protection et la Conservation de la Mangrove, with support from REFACOF and W4B, this project goes beyond tree planting. It’s focused on safeguarding livelihoods, protecting biodiversity, and fostering a resilient community. Explore the stories of the women spearheading this initiative and see the tangible positive effects they’re having on their environment.

Kamatira Women’s Initiative for Forest Restoration and Community Empowerment

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:52:44 UTC

In the face of deforestation and climate change, the women of Kamatira, Kenya, are leading a remarkable conservation movement. Despite societal challenges, these inspiring women have become "agents of change," devising innovative solutions to protect their beloved forest. Through community-driven initiatives, they are restoring the Kamatira Forest,promoting sustainable livelihoods, and empowering women in their community. Their efforts offer a beacon of hope for a more sustainable and equitable future.

Sungai Linau Landscape Conservation and Livelihoods Programme

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:53:29 UTC

The Sungai Linau Landscape Conservation and Livelihoods Programme is a beacon of hope for sustainable development in Riau, Indonesia. This collaborative effort between the public and private sectors aims to protect the region's precious peat swamp forests while improving the livelihoods of local communities. By promoting sustainable land use practices, empowering smallholders, and conserving biodiversity, the program is creating a more resilient and equitable future for Sungai Linau and beyond.

Fishery Improvement Project (FIP)

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:54:52 UTC

Finance Earth and WWF, alongside industry partners, launched a Fishery Improvement Project (FIP) in Chile in April 2024. The FIP is supported through the Fisheries Improvement Fund (FIF), which launched in 2023, and aims to catalyse $100m+ into fisheries improvement by 2030. To date, the FIF has secured over $2m in commitments from supply chain actors, including Mars, Cargill, and Skretting, and has secured initial investment from the Walton Family Foundation. This project in Chile provides crucial funding to support ocean sustainability and coastal livelihoods, through a volume-based fee contributed by supply chain actors. It aims to reduce by-catch and unregulated fishing, while supporting collaboration between artisanal and industrial sectors.

Conserving Indigenous Rice in the Sundarbans

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:57:18 UTC

Discover how Indigenous rice varieties are fighting back against climate change in the Indian and Bangladeshi Sundarbans. Preserved in community seed banks, these resilient rice seeds have shown remarkable survival in the face of devastating cyclones. By working with farmers to restore these ancient grains, the project aids to ensure food security in vulnerable communities.

San Pédro Landscape Programme

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:58:47 UTC

Proforest is leading a transformative effort in Côte d'Ivoire's San Pedro region. Through collaboration with local communities, authorities, and partners, Proforest is developing a sustainable landscape management plan that balances economic growth with environmental protection. This ambitious project aims to revitalize forests, improve livelihoods, and create a more resilient future for the region.

Tree Aid

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 19:59:28 UTC

In Akalwaka, a rural community in the Bongo district of Ghana, women are leading a remarkable restoration project. By forming cooperatives, they've joined forces to regreen degraded land, improve livelihoods, and build resilience against climate change. Through natural resource management, these women are harnessing the power of trees to boost their crops and protect their communities. Their inspiring work has transformed the VEA Dam reservoir, planting over 200,000 trees and ensuring a sustainable water source for generations to come.

Nature and People as One

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:01:01 UTC

In Marsabit, Kenya, a remarkable initiative known as NaPO is quietly making waves as a symbol of unity between nature and people. NaPO, an acronym for Nature and People as One, draws its essence from the indigenous languages of the Rendille and Samburu communities. At the core of NaPO's mission is the utilization of Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR), a biodiversity restoration technique that emphasizes the intrinsic connection between nature and community. FMNR focuses on managing existing tree species in drylands, employing techniques like marking young trees with red paint to prevent them from being cut down and providing support to weak trees for proper growth. By centering efforts on the restoration of acacia tree species, NaPO ensures a minimal conservation footprint while restoring biodiversity.

Conservation of the Natural Capital of APAC Kouvizoun of Adakplamè

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:01:57 UTC

The Kouvizoun Adakplamè-Ewè forest in Benin is a vital sanctuary of biodiversity. As the largest sacred forest in the country, it protects threatened species like the African whitewood and Kapok trees. The community's commitment to conservation, through education, ecotourism, and beekeeping, has improved ecosystem health, water quality, and cultural practices.

BES-Net project

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:02:49 UTC

Elena Kurganova is leading a beekeeping revolution in Kazakhstan. With the BES Solution Fund, she's empowering farmers to adopt pollinator-friendly practices, combat biodiversity loss, and ensure food security. By supporting indigenous genetic resources and promoting sustainable land use, Kazakhstan is creating a brighter future for both people and nature. Learn about the positive impact of the BES Solution Fund (BES-Net catalytic seed fund for local biodiversity solutions) on local agriculture, land restoration, and biodiversity conservation.

Project Makala Vert

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:06:19 UTC

The Makala Vert project aims to ensure a sustainable supply of wood energy in Central African cities while minimizing environmental impact. It focuses on improving supply chains, promoting sustainable forest management practices, and analyzing the legislative, socio-economic, and financing framework of the wood energy sector. The project targets public and private decision-makers, support organizations, and rural communities in supply basins.

Lipu-BirdLife

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:06:59 UTC

Learn about how Lipu-BirdLife Italy is empowering young people to create a sustainable food future. This innovative program engages high school students in hands-on activities that promote sustainable agriculture and reduce food waste. By learning about the power of their choices, students are inspired to become leaders in their communities, advocating for a more sustainable and ethical food system.

Nature4Cities: Santo Domingo, Ecuador

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:10:28 UTC

Nature for Cities is a transformative project in Santo Domingo, Ecuador. By working with local governments, communities, and experts, this initiative is addressing the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable urban development. The project includes building the skills and knowledge of community members and officials, creating strategies to mitigate climate risks and enhance resilience, ensuring that urban development is in harmony with the natural environment, and restoring forests, rivers, and green spaces. Through these efforts, Nature for Cities is helping Santo Domingo become a more resilient, sustainable, and livable city for all.

Addressing Water Scarcity in Pakistan

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:11:41 UTC

This case study examines how a small town in Pakistan is addressing water scarcity through practical solutions. The project focuses on harnessing rainwater and fostering community engagement, showcasing effective innovations that are transforming local lives and communities. It highlights how these sustainable strategies are improving water security and resilience in the area.

Pride on Our Plates

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:12:24 UTC

China's food waste crisis is a pressing global issue. Rare, One Planet Foundation, and WWF are working together to address this problem by empowering small businesses to adopt sustainable practices and promote consumer awareness by providing restaurants with a toolkit of solutions to reduce food waste and create new social standards for sustainability. Through the Pride on Our Plates project, the goal is to reduce food waste, conserve resources, and foster a more sustainable future for China.

The Sungai Linau Landscape Conservation and Livelihoods Programme

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:13:18 UTC

The Sungai Linau Landscape Conservation and Livelihoods Programme is creating a more sustainable future in Indonesia. This collaborative initiative aims to protect forests, peatlands, and empower local communities to improve their livelihoods. By promoting sustainable land use practices and supporting smallholder farmers, the Sungai Linau project is helping to conserve biodiversity and create a more resilient ecosystem.

RegenHive

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:14:04 UTC

RegenHive is a vision for a regenerative future. Amidst global challenges, this innovative project empowers individuals to create positive change through community-driven initiatives. By fostering economic resilience, ecological restoration, and social well-being, RegenHive offers a holistic approach to a more sustainable and equitable world.

EcoEnterprises Fund

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:14:51 UTC

EcoEnterprises Fund is a pioneer in nature-positive investing. For 25 years, it has supported innovative businesses across Latin America that protect biodiversity, combat climate change, and empower local communities. Its portfolio companies lead the way in sustainable agriculture, forestry, and community-based initiatives, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future for the planet.

Lion Bridge Project

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:16:02 UTC

In 2015, the National Wildlife Foundation (NWF) and Caltrans proposed a massive corridor across the 101 freeway in Agoura Hills to provide wildlife with a safe place to cross into other habitats. Construction is now on its way and when built, the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing will be the largest wildlife corridor in the world and will restore habitats and an ecosystem that over time has been degraded by human development. The bridge will allow for wildlife to cross freely over the 101 freeway without the threat of death or accidents, and will ensure the survival of many isolated species. The crossing is expected to be finished in 2026.

Forests Combatting Climate Change in Cambodia

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:16:56 UTC

This conservation project in Cambodia has successfully restored over 600 hectares of degraded forest around Tonle Sap Lake. Through collaborative efforts, UNDP and the Cambodian government have revitalized the ecosystem, protected biodiversity, and improved the livelihoods of local communities. The project's integrated approach includes strengthening community fisheries management and promoting sustainable energy solutions to reduce deforestation. By empowering local stakeholders, Cambodia is building a more resilient and sustainable future.

Under The Mango Tree Society

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:32:37 UTC

The Under The Mango Tree Society is empowering small farmers through beekeeping. By working with indigenous bee species, this innovative project is promoting biodiversity, increasing crop yields, and improving livelihoods. Through training, support, and community engagement, the Society is helping farmers harness the power of bees for a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Hadza’s Carbon Project

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:33:08 UTC

The Hadza have been protecting their land against multiple threats for many decades. Even when they lost up to 90% of their rangelands, they did not give up. They secured their land rights and then developed an innovative carbon project to protect their land. This project has protected their forest and in doing so secured their cultural identity. The success of the project attracted other neighbouring Indigenous groups, such as the Datooga, to join them in protecting even greater tracts of forest.

The ‘Sustainability of Protected Areas’ (SPA) Project

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:33:52 UTC

Women are at the forefront of mountain conservation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The ‘Sustainability of Protected Areas’ (SPA) project in Bosnia and Herzegovina is working to protect nature and biodiversity in mountainous areas while also promoting sustainable development and women's empowerment. The project is supporting local communities in developing sustainable tourism products, restoring wetland habitats, and implementing adaptation and resilience measures to address climate change threats. The project is also focused on gender equality and is working to increase women's participation in decision-making and leadership roles in mountain development.

Eternal Mongolia

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:34:27 UTC

Eternal Mongolia is a groundbreaking initiative to protect one of the world's most unique ecosystems. This ambitious project aims to conserve 30% of Mongolia's land, safeguarding its vast grasslands, mountains, rivers, and wildlife. By investing in conservation and sustainable development, Eternal Mongolia is creating a brighter future for both people and nature in this remarkable country.

Muhaan

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:35:24 UTC

Learn more about the inspiring work of Muhaan, a social enterprise in the village of Samsing, Kalimpong district, India. Muhaan is dedicated to conserving the biocultural diversity of rural areas through conscious community-based tourism. By collaborating closely with local communities and youth, Muhaan creates unique tourism experiences that authentically reflect the narrative and cultural heritage of each area.

Mongolia's Clean Energy Transition

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:36:26 UTC

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia is the coldest capital in the world. To endure temperatures as low as -45°C, the residents of Ulaanbaatar's ger districts (informal housing settlements on the city outskirts) rely on coal for warmth. This reliance on coal contributes to significant air pollution, hindering health and quality of life for millions. To combat this challenge, UNDP Mongolia, together with partners, is developing a solar solution to reduce air pollution, empower communities, and promote environmental sustainability in Ulaanbaatar.

Child Labour Free Mica Program (CLFM)

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:40:40 UTC

This project documents the positive impact of efforts to transform the mica mining industry in NE India, particularly in forested regions. After 20 years of dedicated work, illegal mining operations have been shut down, leading to the restoration of these forests. Local communities, including those who once worked in the mines, report that wildlife like elephants are making a comeback. The progress is verified by government authorities and backed by GIS data.

Public Private Community Alliance

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:41:15 UTC

The 22-year partnership with Aveda has been pivotal in protecting vast areas of Nepal’s forests and natural lands, ensuring food, water, and educational security for local communities. This collaboration highlights not only the commitment to environmental and biodiversity conservation but also the effectiveness of partnerships during disasters, such as the 2015 earthquake and COVID-19, where community resilience and decision-making were crucial. While the project supports habitats for species like the Red Panda, it aligns with the Sherpa community’s broader focus on preserving the entire ecosystem and its biodiversity.

Proforest's Asutifi Landscape Programme in Ghana

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-16 20:54:05 UTC

Proforest is leading the Asunafo-Asutifi Landscape Programme in Ghana. This collaborative initiative aims to create a more sustainable and resilient cocoa-producing region. By working with local communities, government agencies, and businesses, the program focuses on protecting forests, improving cocoa productivity, and enhancing livelihoods. Through sustainable practices and community empowerment, Asunafo-Asutifi is paving the way for a brighter future.

Nature4Cities

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-17 15:07:10 UTC

Nature4Cities is empowering cities to embrace a greener future. By harnessing the power of nature-based solutions, Nature4Cities is helping cities become more resilient to climate change, improve air quality, and enhance overall well-being. Through their comprehensive approach, they provide cities with the tools they need to understand their climate risks, develop tailored nature-based solutions, identify and implement a wide range of NBS, foster partnerships between public and private sectors to accelerate NBS adoption, and develop innovative financing strategies to ensure long-term sustainability. With N4C, cities can lead the way in creating a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable future for all.

This initiative is operational in the following cities: Manzanillo, Cuba; Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic; Guatemala City, Guatemala; La Lima, Honduras; El Progreso, Honduras; Durazno, Uruguay; Rivera, Uruguay; and the following cities in Panama: Arraiján, Colón, Bocas del Toro and metropolitan area of Chiriqui-Boquete, Dolega and Gualaca.

The RESIST Project

learningfornature1 — 2024-09-17 15:09:00 UTC

The RESIST Project, co-funded by the EU, brings together diverse stakeholders, including civil society, businesses, policymakers and researchers to collaborate and co-create resilience strategies. By fostering knowledge exchange and using immersive digital twin technology, RESIST aims to transfer expertise and adaptation pathways from demonstrator regions to eight twinned regions.

This initiative is also operational in Denmark, Spain, and Portugal.

Exmoor National Park

2024-10-01 19:26:38 UTC

This paper introduces the concept of the "Voice of Nature" utilising AI and GPTs to represent Exmoor's ecosystems and wildlife. This is not merely a metaphor but a tangible, data-driven approach to understanding and advocating for Exmoor's Natural Environment.

Romonya, Hungary

2024-10-06 10:16:12 UTC

By creating a well-functioning, self-sustaining and balancing ecosystem, we can achieve goals that we have not even dared to imagine until now.

In a garden or farm based on win-win relationships, we create the perfect balance of nature conservation, production and gardening - all in a carefully planned, scientifically based system. In the production system based on bird-human cooperation, cooperation is one of the most important principles, which is not only about the protection of birds, but also about the intertwining of the entire ecosystem, the entire community of life, and even environmental effects and processes on the same level. In this new approach, we leave behind the mistaken assumption of modern man that the human race is above the system and has the duty or natural right to control it.

The production practice based on bird-human cooperation therefore means an ecological management based on a horizontal change of approach, the driving force of which is the continuous expansion of knowledge in the field of natural sciences - especially in the field of ecology and environmental interactions - and which connects this knowledge with the existing practice and determines the production goals for the with a responsible consideration of available options and resources.