Apala Group’s Post

Enhancing Ecosystem Conservation in Colombia Through the Inhabit Legal Framework and Biocultural Hubs In Colombia, the urgency to conserve and restore ecosystems is ever-present, driven by the pressures of climate change and deforestation. An effective solution lies in the InHabit legal framework, which offers a systematic model for engaging diverse stakeholders. By integrating biocultural hubs, this model further enriches the approach by preserving both biodiversity and cultural heritage, making conservation efforts more comprehensive and culturally sensitive. These hubs (BCH) facilitate the collaboration between indigenous communities and other stakeholders, ensuring that conservation efforts are informed by traditional knowledge and practices. This approach not only secures sustainable funding through public, private, and community resources but also fosters a collective responsibility towards our natural and cultural landscapes. By adopting Inhabit's framework and promoting biocultural hubs, Colombia can effectively mobilize the necessary resources for these crucial initiatives. https://lnkd.in/eve67pPx #EcosystemConservation #regenDevelopment #ClimateAction #Biodiversity #EnvironmentalProtection #NatureColombia #ConservationFinance #CulturalHeritage #IndigenousKnowledge #regenEconomy

The PRO-Coast initiative is vibrant and progressing well following the recent third meeting in Koper, Slovenia. The spotlight was on Fundación Ibercivis, the influential Spanish member of the PRO-Coast consortium, which shared a detailed account of the meeting and the case study area. The consortium members embarked on an awe-inspiring journey to the striking salt-lakes of Strunjan, where they engaged in meaningful discussions regarding sustainable practices and conservation strategies. At the heart of the PRO-Coast project is the imperative to decipher the multifaceted influences that shape human behavior and decision-making concerning environmental conservation in coastal regions. Through nine in-depth case studies, the initiative meticulously examines behavior patterns, anthropogenic impacts, lifestyle choices, and cultural and ethical values. By actively involving a diverse array of stakeholders—including civil society representatives, policymakers, funders, and industry leaders— PRO-Coast strives to create effective strategies that enhance environmental governance and foster sustainability within local communities. In this endeavor, PRO-Coast empowers local communities and civil society to take charge of restoring and maintaining biodiversity across Europe. Fundación Ibercivis plays a pivotal role by providing innovative methodologies and tools for citizen participation, enabling the evaluation of these processes and reinforcing the evidence base for impactful conservation actions. Their commitment not only facilitates informed decision-making but also cultivates a culture of stewardship that is essential for the future of our coastal ecosystems. https://lnkd.in/gfeU9CzP

🌿 Celebrating Mangrove Day: The Unsung Heroes of Our Ecosystems 🌿 On July 26th, we celebrated World Mangrove Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the incredible importance of mangrove ecosystems. These coastal forests are not just beautiful landscapes; they are vital to our planet's health and sustainability. 🔍 Why Mangroves Matter: Mangroves are extraordinary ecosystems that provide a multitude of benefits: Carbon Sequestration: Mangroves are incredibly efficient at sequestering carbon, storing up to four times more carbon than tropical rainforests. This makes them crucial in the fight against climate change. Biodiversity Hotspots: Home to a diverse range of species, mangroves support fish, birds, and countless other wildlife, contributing to rich biodiversity. Coastal Protection: Mangroves act as natural barriers, protecting coastal communities from storm surges, erosion, and tsunamis. 🌾 Mangroves and Agriculture: Mangroves play a significant role in sustainable agriculture and soil conservation. They help: Improve Soil Quality: The roots of mangrove trees trap sediments, preventing soil erosion and maintaining soil fertility. This is particularly important for agricultural lands adjacent to coastal areas. Support Fisheries: Mangrove forests serve as nurseries for many fish species that are vital to both local and global fisheries. Healthy mangroves mean thriving fish populations, which support sustainable livelihoods for communities reliant on fishing. 🌍 Conservation Efforts: Despite their importance, mangroves are under threat from deforestation, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts are critical to preserve these ecosystems: Restoration Projects: Around the world, initiatives are underway to restore degraded mangrove areas. These projects not only revive ecosystems but also enhance local economies by providing jobs and sustainable resources. Community Involvement: Engaging local communities in conservation efforts ensures that the benefits of mangroves are recognized and valued. Community-led projects often lead to more effective and lasting conservation outcomes. 💡 A Call to Action: Let's use this day as a reminder of the essential role mangroves play in our environment and the urgent need to protect them. By supporting conservation efforts, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and raising awareness, we can help ensure that these vital ecosystems continue to thrive. Together, we can make a difference. 🌱🌏 #MangroveDay #SustainableScience #SoilConservation #Biodiversity #ClimateAction #FermentationScientist #Biotechnology #EcosystemRestoration

Mar de las Calmas – El Hierro - Canarias | Future First National Marine Park of Spain   Mar de las Calmas located south-west of the island of El Hierro in the Canary Islands, with an area of 9,898.43 hectares and which bathes the coast of the municipality of El Pinar will be pioneering thanks to its totally marine condition becoming soon the first National Marine Park of Spain.   More than a thousand kilometers from the Iberian Peninsula this area has become one of the most important ecosystems in Europe and now the Mar de las Calmas with this achievement will also has the aim of preserving biodiversity and promoting it on the island of El Hierro.   This area of sea obeys a confluence of oceanographic circumstances unlike other stretches of coast surrounding the Canary Island where the sea is usually quite rough and difficult to navigate.   The Council of Ministers has already given the green light to the proposal to declare this area of over 24,000 hectares a national park.   Although the process is in its early stages it is shaping up to be a historic achievement for Spain, so much so that WWF, together with the Ministry for Ecological Transition and MITECO have committed themselves to promoting the initiative.   https://lnkd.in/ex7EznfP

🌿 New Nature Restoration Law: A Crucial Step for Sustainability 🌍 The recently approved Nature Restoration Law is a milestone in the fight to recover our degraded ecosystems and protect biodiversity. This law not only promotes environmental restoration but also drives us to take concrete actions toward a greener, more sustainable future. 🌱 In this video, we explore the details of this important legislation and how we can all contribute to its success. It's time to come together for the protection of our planet! 🌿 💬 I'd love to hear your thoughts! How do you think this new law will impact our environment and communities? Share your opinion in the comments below! 🌍👇 #JoinTheConversation #NatureRestoration #Sustainability #Biodiversity #EnvironmentalLaw #Inbiota

Celebrating the International Day of Biological Diversity! 🌿 Today, we honor the rich variety of life on our planet, from the tiniest microorganisms to the grandest ecosystems. Biodiversity is essential for the health of our environment and the wellbeing of humanity. Every species plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems. 🌏 The International Day of Biological Diversity (IDB) was established by the United Nations to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. Celebrated every year on May 22nd, it commemorates the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) on May 22, 1992. This year's theme, "Be part of the Plan," calls on all stakeholders to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity by supporting the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. 🌱 Sustainable tourism can play a significant role in preserving biodiversity. By choosing eco-friendly travel options, we reduce our carbon footprint and help protect natural habitats. This involves staying in accommodations that implement green practices, using public transportation, and supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability. 🌲 Supporting conservation efforts is another powerful way to contribute. Many tourism initiatives focus on protecting endangered species and their habitats. Participating in eco-tours and wildlife sanctuaries that follow ethical guidelines can fund conservation projects, raise awareness about biodiversity, and promote sustainable practices in local communities. 🟢 Respecting natural habitats is essential. When visiting natural areas, follow guidelines to minimize impact, such as staying on designated paths, not disturbing wildlife, and avoiding single-use plastics. Small actions collectively make a big difference. 🚴🏻♀️ Educating ourselves and others about biodiversity's importance is also crucial. Understanding the challenges faced by different ecosystems and species helps us become advocates for change. Sharing knowledge and experiences can inspire more people to travel responsibly and support biodiversity conservation. Let's travel responsibly and ensure that the beauty and wonder of our planet are preserved for generations to come. By making mindful choices and supporting sustainable tourism, we can protect the diversity of life. For more information and resources, visit: https://lnkd.in/dxWaa5d #BiodiversityDay #SustainableTourism #EcoFriendlyTravel #ResponsibleTravel #PreserveNature #Travelife

As world leaders are coming together at the UN Biodiversity #COP16Colombia, let´s shine a spotlight on an ecosystem that is often overlooked – but immensely rich in biodiversity and culture: the Orinoquia savannah. Spreading across #Colombia and #Venezuela, this ecosystem is one of the most biodiverse of the world and provides a wide variety of ecological benefits. In Colombia, it covers 35 million hectares and contains more than 32 % of the country´s water reserves. It is home to at least 3,920 species including plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. But the Orinoquia is transformed and degraded at an alarming rate. Without "llaneros y llaneras", traditional cattle ranchers, it probably would have been lost already. For over 500 years they have lived in harmony with the Orinoquia, maintaining its biodiversity. “We have learned to understand nature and live in the landscape. We are not happy when our wallets are full; we are happy when we are at peace with nature” says Francisco 'Pacho' Sandoval, a cattle rancher and veterinarian from Casanare (Colombia) who has committed himself to conservation. It is people like Francisco who guard and sustain these important ecosystems. But without international support and commitments, the threats grasslands and savannahs are facing will only increase. That´s why we are calling on countries at the #COP16Colombia to include grasslands and savannahs in their national strategies (NBSAPs) to halt and combat the alarming loss of biodiversity. Find out more about Franciscos approach and philosophy in the video series produced by WWF Colombia and other partners of the Global Environment Facility project “Integrated Sustainable Landscapes of the Orinoquia”. The project is led by the Government of Colombia and implemented by the Ministerio de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sostenible, Parques Nacionales Naturales de Colombia and Corporación Autónoma Regional de la Orinoquía - CORPORINOQUIA, with the support of the The World Bank, as the implementing agency, and WWF Colombia, as the executing agency. https://lnkd.in/eRZHWwvQ

We're thrilled to announce Sembrando Futuro 2.0, a new project that will restore critical ecosystems in the Colombian Andes, in partnership with Grupo Argos Foundation. Sembrando Futuro 2.0 will advance the planting of 2.3 million native trees, restore wildlife habitats and migration routes, sequester over 390,000 tonnes of GHGs, and create around 1,300 sustainable jobs for the local community. Colombia's tropical Andean region is one of the world’s richest biodiversity hotspots. The southwest corner of this region, Antioquia, hosts over 50% of the country’s vascular plants, amphibians, birds, and mammals. But with only a third of the area's natural forests remaining, ecological restoration is urgently needed.   With the support of early investors, this biodiversity cornerstone initiative can reach the full potential of its impact. Learn more: https://refore.st/futuro

At COP16, Nación Verde presented “Guardians of the Monarch,” a reforestation project aimed at restoring the habitat of the monarch butterfly in key areas such as Michoacán, Baja California, and Sonora. The loss of these ecosystems has put the migration of this iconic species at risk, as it relies on these spaces to survive and reproduce. So far over a million trees have been planted and 3,000 hectares are being protected, working hand in hand with indigenous communities. With the ambitious goal of planting millions of trees and restoring 30,000 hectares in the wintering sanctuary, the project also seeks to raise environmental awareness in local communities, integrating conservation as part of their development. Through reforestation, it contributes to ecosystem regeneration and ecological balance, essential for ensuring the future of this species and regional biodiversity. We invite you to learn more at the following link: https://lnkd.in/g433KcUW

#InternationalDayofForests   Did you know that we preserve 5,744 hectares of #nativeforest? We preserve 0.75 hectares of native forest per productive hectare. The Yungas forests in Tucumán are areas of high environmental value due to their ecological biodiversity and importance. In comparison with other Yungas forests, the capacity of carbon storage in Citrusvil’s forests is 60 % higher.   Since 2016, we have been part of the Protected Productive Landscape Program of Fundación ProYungas. We strike a balance between production and biodiversity conservation. We are production and future.