Ecosystems in Action: Collaborative Strategies for Biodiversity Conservation
The session brought together experts from various domains to discuss collaborative approaches and strategies for biodiversity conservation and the importance of multistakeholder engagement and ecosystem-based approaches for effective conservation outcomes.
Speakers
Ms Pankti Shah, State CSR Head, Adani Foundation, Ahmedabad
Shri R K Sugoor, IFS, Chairman, Gujarat Biodiversity Board, and Director, GEER Foundation, Gandhinagar
Dr V Vijay Kumar, Director, Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE), Bhuj, Kachchh
Ms Neha Raghav, Director, Education, World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) India, Delhi
Mr David Manski, Former Director, Acadia National Park, USA
Dr Biswajit De, Founder President, WildRoots India, Guwahati
Dr Gayatri Doctor, Program Chair, Masters in Urban Management Program, CEPT University, Ahmedabad
Dr Mohmadnavaz Dahya, BKM Science College
Session Highlights
Collaborative Efforts for Impactful Conservation: Emphasis was placed on moving beyond fragmented efforts, with multistakeholder collaboration identified as a key to resource efficiency and effective biodiversity conservation.
Corporate Role in Biodiversity and Community Well-being: Strategic corporate initiatives, such as those by the Adani Foundation, were highlighted for enhancing biodiversity while promoting community well-being through alternative livelihoods and sustainable practices.
Education and Capacity Building: Conservation education, particularly for youth, and capacity building among stakeholders were stressed as critical for fostering long-term commitment to biodiversity preservation.
Technology-Driven Ecosystem Management: Advanced technologies like GIS and AI were identified as transformative for large-scale ecosystem monitoring and data-driven decision-making.
Collective Responsibility and Data-Driven Restoration: The session underscored the need for collective responsibility and detailed, data-based ecosystem health monitoring plans to ensure sustainable conservation efforts.
Implement data-driven ecosystem management leveraging advanced technologies like GIS, AI, and satellite monitoring.
Focus policy efforts on preserving genetic and agro-biodiversity while empowering local communities through initiatives like People’s Biodiversity Registers.
Promote responsible ecotourism, sustainable urban planning, efficient waste management, and nature-friendly livelihood opportunities for long-term environmental sustainability.
