GroundUp Conservation’s Post

Indigenous communities across continents embody culturally and ecologically sustainable practices that have safeguarded the planet. In our efforts to address climate risks, we often overlook these solutions which have existed for generations and provide opportunities for positive action. Facing increasing threat from factors like urbanisation and rising tourism, their potential to influence change needs to be amplified. One such case-study that caught my attention is the "Jingkieng Jri" - the Living Root Bridges of the Khasi community in the mountainous state of Meghalaya, #India. Some research lead me to fascinating insights. I have shared the official video developed by Meghalaya Tourism that provides an overview. #Meghalaya, known as the “Abode of Clouds” and home to the “wettest place on earth” in Cherrapunji, the topography is dense jungle dotted with waterfalls, steep slopes, lakes and streams. In a practice dating back centuries – the roots of trees are coaxed and stretched into the form of a suspension bridge over a river. These unique structures, created by a combination of nature and human ingenuity provide rural connectivity and livelihood solutions. Within the sustainability development perspective, local innovation and technologies offer appropriate solutions to develop resilience and adaptability. My key takeaways: 🌏 leveraging the knowledge of local communities who have held the mantle as ecological stewards for centuries 🌏 recognise, re-instate and institutionalise rapidly depleting community knowledge and resilient local technologies that are an outcome of responses to ecosystem and biodiversity, practised for generations 🌏 value and preserve the indigenous living culture, ecology and way of life 🌏 transform our relationship with nature from superior to symbiotic that advocates and promotes the intricate interconnectivity 🌏 reflect on priorities and revisit strategies that amplify peaceful existence with nature Jingkieng jri has been included in UNESCO’s ‘world heritage site’ tentative list. A description on UNESCO’s website acknowledges: “Grown by indigenous Khasi tribal communities, these structural ecosystems have performed in extreme climatic conditions for centuries, and encapsulate a profound harmony between humans and nature … validating the resilience of an ancient culture, where collective cooperation and reciprocity were the fundamental building blocks of life. The intergenerational growth process of nurturing a sapling into a robust load-bearing structure in extreme climate and geography reveals exceptional enterprise and skill". #sustainablesolution #ecofriendly #conservation #globalsouth #localinnovation #climatechange #leadership #environment #biodiversity #indigenous #socialimpact

According to a 2018 publication, over 1,000 mountain gorillas remain worldwide. Some of these gorillas inhabit the rainforests of the Virunga Mountains in central Africa, while nearly half of the population lives in the montane forests of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Uganda is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas, primarily found on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains in Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. 🦍🌍🍃 There are two gorillas native to Africa: the Eastern Gorilla and the Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla). The mountain gorilla, a subspecies of the Eastern Gorilla, resides exclusively in the rainforests of east-central Africa. As its name suggests, it inhabits mountainous regions between 8,000 and 13,000 feet. Space for Giants worked with the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Uganda Tourism Board to analyze sustainable gorilla tourism opportunities to help secure the species’ future. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwest Uganda are home to 470 endangered mountain gorillas. Recommendations from our report were implemented in 2023, including setting up an international media group to publicize gorilla tourism and planning for further feasibility assessments for conservation tourism initiatives. Please click the link below to read more from our Impact report: https://bit.ly/4arPd9v #mountaingorillas #endangeredspecies #Uganda #Africa #gorillas #willdlife #conservation #tourism #ecotourism #NationalPark #forests #sustainability

Such a great topic to talk about in tourism, as the demand for sustainable and nature-centric tourism grows, horti-tourism emerges as a promising niche, bridging cultural discovery with environmental awareness. Let's cultivate this promising sector together! #HortiTourism #IndiaTourism

This report explores the intricate relationship between the tourism sector and biodiversity, which encompasses the diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems. It assesses how 80 national tourism policies incorporate biodiversity values and aims to deepen the understanding of the references to biodiversity within these policies. The report comprises four detailed subsections that examine the integration of biodiversity within policy narratives, policy statements, strategic programmes and commitments to monitoring. By providing insights into the breadth and depth of current integration efforts, it serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, stakeholders and the global community, urging further action towards a sustainable future. Keywords: SDGs, tourism, biodiversity, biological diversity, tourism policies, visitor attraction, biodiversity conservation, guiding principles, culture and biodiversity, social development, NTA, NTP, national tourism policies, strategic programme, infrastructure, coastal tourism, protected areas, monitoring, integration efforts, resources World Tourism Organization (2024), The Integration of Biodiversity in National Tourism Policies, UN Tourism, Madrid, DOI: https://lnkd.in/dwrXd2J4 #Tourism #TourismSector #DestinationMarketing #Policy Phila Dyasi

🌍📚 Excited to share that I have published two research papers at the 1st National Sustainable Tourism Conference at the University of Peradeniya! 🌱 1️⃣ Balancing Population Growth, Eco-Tourism, and Forest Conservation in Sri Lanka – Exploring sustainable solutions for preserving biodiversity while promoting tourism. 2️⃣ Ecosystem Services for Sustainable Tourism and Poverty Reduction in Sri Lanka – Analyzing how ecosystem services can contribute to poverty alleviation through tourism. Grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the growing field of sustainable tourism! 🌿🌏 #SustainableTourism #EcoTourism #SriLanka #ForestConservation #EcosystemServices #PovertyReduction #Research #Sustainability #TourismDevelopment #Conservation #GreenTourism #EnvironmentalImpact #SustainabilityInTourism #SustainableDevelopment #UniversityOfPeradeniya #TourismResearch #NatureConservation

EARTH, SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY: TOURISM & BIODIVERSITY #biodiversity #Engagement #Economy #Tourism #WildLifeConservation #EarningsFromTourism #ConserveForestReserves #FundsForConservation Tourism serves as a significant source of income for countries. Wildlife tourism, in particular, has gained considerable interest and demand within the sector. "Tourism is an effective method of leveraging and mobilizing available natural resources for biodiversity financing" [UNDP, 2022] Problem: However, there is a notable loss of biodiversity that needs to be addressed [Shrestha, 2022]. Solution: "Promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism in Nepal’s protected areas is foundational for the country’s Green, Resilient, and Inclusive Development (GRID)" [Shrestha, 2022] "The revenue generated by protected areas through park fees is an essential source of funding for biodiversity conservation" [Shrestha, 2022] "Harnessing Tourism to Enhance the Value of Biodiversity and Promote Conservation in Nepal" [Shrestha, 2022] Reference: - UNDP, (2022). Leveraging natural resources for Biodiversity Financing through Eco-Tourism initiatives. [online] Available at: https://lnkd.in/gmqrN94C [Accessed 26 October 2024]. - Shrestha, A., (2022). Harnessing Tourism to Enhance the Value of Biodiversity and Promote Conservation in Nepal. [Online] World Bank. Available at: https://lnkd.in/gDh7FBit [Accessed 26 October 2024].

🌿 Discover the Impact of Natura 2000 on Eco-Tourism in Greece! 🌍 As eco-tourism gains momentum, the role of Natura 2000 sites in Greece has become essential for promoting sustainability. Our latest article highlights the remarkable efforts of local communities and stakeholders who are safeguarding biodiversity while enhancing eco-friendly tourism. From protecting endangered species to fostering sustainable development, these initiatives are creating a balance between conservation and tourism growth. 🌱 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/d7N83yDg #iED #iEDproject #iEDeurope #iEDblog #dualtourismproject

A new report from UN Tourism reveals that while 95% of national tourism policies recognize nature as a primary asset, many lack detailed plans for sustainable management practices. Published on the International Day of Biodiversity, the report titled "The Integration of Biodiversity in National Tourism Policies" examines how 80 national tourism policies address biodiversity and offers insights into improving these practices. Read More on WTFI/Live: https://lnkd.in/eimD3QDP

Floriculture Tourism: The Untapped Goldmine for States! 🌺💰 Have you ever considered how flowers could bloom into a booming tourism industry? 🌼 Inspired by the success of the Tulip Garden in Kashmir, let's dive into the vibrant world of floriculture tourism! What is Floriculture Tourism? It’s about creating stunning gardens and festivals that celebrate nature’s beauty while drawing in tourists for unique cultural experiences. 🌷 Spotlight on Kashmir’s Tulip Garden: #NicheAttraction: Exclusive seasonal blooms that attract crowds. #GovernmentSupport: Robust investment in infrastructure and promotion. #CulturalIntegration:The Tulip Festival enhances local identity. #TourismSynergy: The breathtaking Kashmir Valley setting adds allure. But why haven't other states replicated this success? A few hurdles stand in the way: *Lack of infrastructure. *Limited government backing. * Short blooming seasons. * Environmental challenges. 🌿 What Can Other States Do? * Extend the tourist season by combining floriculture with year-round attractions. * Foster partnerships with local artisans for enriched visitor experiences. * Implement savvy marketing strategies to reach broader audiences. Imagine the possibilities! Can every state carve out its own floriculture niche? How can we ensure these endeavors are sustainable while boosting economic growth? 💬 Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below! Let's discuss how we can make floriculture tourism a key revenue source for our states. #FloricultureTourism #SustainableTourism #KashmirTulips #EconomicGrowth #CulturalExperience #TravelIndustry #NatureLovers #CommunityDevelopment

Interesting tourism destination brand launch that happened today at the KAZA 2024 Heads of State Summit in Livingstone Zambia. Rivers of life - it has a good ring to it but what does it mean for KAZA's rivers? why rivers of life? does the brand bring attention and awareness to the rivers? if so, how and which rivers of KAZA? the presser doesn't explicitly say much about this but implies on the connectivity benefits rivers bring to a place like KAZA.