Protected Area Planning And Design
We assist in the scientific and participatory design of protected areas to ensure they are ecologically representative, well-connected, and resilient to threats like climate change.
- Conduct spatial analysis and ecological gap assessments to identify priority areas for conservation.
- Facilitate stakeholder workshops to integrate local knowledge and secure community support for boundaries and zoning.
- Develop management plans that define clear objectives, zones for different uses (e.g., core, buffer), and legal frameworks.
Monitoring And Evaluation Systems
We establish robust frameworks to track the status of biodiversity, ecosystem services, and management actions, providing data to measure effectiveness and adapt strategies.
- Implement standardized tools like the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT) to assess management processes.
- Deploy technologies such as camera traps, satellite imagery, and acoustic sensors for biodiversity and threat monitoring.
- Analyze data to produce regular reports on key indicators, enabling adaptive management and transparent reporting to donors and governments.
Threat Mitigation And Law Enforcement Support
We help strengthen on-the-ground protection by building capacity to prevent and respond to illegal activities and other pressures that degrade protected area values.
- Provide training and equipment for ranger patrols, including SMART (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool) software for data collection.
- Develop and implement strategies to combat specific threats like poaching, illegal logging, unsustainable tourism, and invasive species.
- Foster collaboration with local communities as conservation partners to enhance surveillance and reduce human-wildlife conflict.
Sustainable Financing And Governance
We work to secure long-term financial sustainability and improve governance structures, ensuring protected areas have the resources and clear authority needed for effective management.
- Develop diversified revenue models, including tourism fees, payments for ecosystem services, and conservation trust funds.
- Advise on policy and legal reforms to clarify management authority, define roles, and ensure equitable benefit-sharing with local communities.
- Build capacity of protected area agencies in financial planning, administration, and reporting.
Community Engagement And Livelihood Integration
We promote inclusive approaches that recognize the rights and roles of indigenous peoples and local communities, linking conservation outcomes with improved human well-being.
- Support the establishment and management of Indigenous and Community Conserved Areas (ICCAs).
- Facilitate the development of community-based enterprises (e.g., eco-tourism, sustainable harvesting) that provide alternative livelihoods.
- Implement participatory decision-making forums to ensure local voices are heard in management planning and benefit distribution.