Text written in Basque and translated automatically by Elia without any subsequent editing. SEE ORIGINAL

Local environmental movements, key to the global conservation of biodiversity

Local socio-environmental movements and groups are key to global biodiversity conservation, according to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). The study, conducted by an international team of researchers as part of the IPBES Transformative Change Assessment and based on data from the Environmental Justice Atlas (EJAtlas), indicates that although many of them are not recognized, local struggles against polluting industries are critical to protecting the planet’s most vulnerable biodiversity.

The study found that these movements bring together indigenous peoples, peasant organizations, citizen groups, grassroots communities and local social and environmental organizations, and face environmental threats from economic sectors such as mining, fossil fuels, industrial agriculture, waste management, etc

“Instead of considering it as an obstacle, they propose to recognize it as a legitimate ally for conservation.”

They have also confirmed that such mobilizations are essential for the achievement of international biodiversity objectives. In fact, they contribute significantly to 13 of the 23 goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), specifically those aimed at the protection, restoration of ecosystems and sustainable land management.

At the same time, researchers have shown that one third of these movements suffer violence, repression and criminalization. These repressive actions are particularly severe in high-priority conservation areas and in the Global South, particularly in Africa and the Americas.

Finally, the researchers propose three points to support the movements and increase their impact. On the one hand, recognition as a legitimate ally for conservation rather than as an obstacle by States and international organizations. On the other hand, strengthen these movements by providing resources and support networks. Finally, better protection of activists through security protocols and the enforcement of human rights. In fact, the authors believe that recognizing, supporting and strengthening socio-environmental movements would increase their capacity for the benefit of both people and the planet.