Alpine Biodiversity Conservation Project
Case Study C0230
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| Date | 2001 |
| Agency | Alpine Biodiversity Conservation Programme (ABCAP) |
| Donor/support agency | GEF SGP |
| Project type | Implemented by agency |
| Context(s) | indigenous territory |
| Geographic coverage | Nepal |
| Locality | Jumla district |
| Biodiversity focus | Species |
| Development focus | Local communities |
| Conservation goals | Conserve and sustainably manage NTFPs |
| Poverty reduction goals | Improve local socio-economic conditions through the domestication of medicinal plants |
Summary
Jumla district in Nepal is traditionally rich in non-timber forest products (NTFPs). However, many important species have been overexploited during the years and are now threatened with extinction. Jumla is one of the most inaccessible and remote districts in Nepal and is still way behind in terms of social and economic development compared to the rest of the country. The exploitation of NTFPs is for local, poverty-ridden communities one of the main source of livelihoods.
In response to this situation, the Alpine Biodiversity Conservation Programme, with the financial support of GEF SGP, started in 1999 a project aimed at conserving and sustainably managing valuable NTFPs. The project specifically addresses the livelihood and social problems of local communities alongside with the alpine biodiversity conservation measures. Recognizing that medicinal plants are one of the major exporting commodities for Jumla district, the project set out to achieve domestication of the rare but high valued medicinal plants in order to alleviate the socio-economic condition of the Jumli people, and, at the same time, relieving the pressure on the environment.
Conservation impact
The project was very good for promoting awareness of environmental issues. Plantation of medicinal herbs in school farms by school teachers and students were also encouraged for school's income generation and awareness purposes.
Poverty reduction impact
The project facilitated in the formation of community based groups who are instrumental in domestication of the rare but high valued medicinal plants in order to alleviate the socio-economic condition of the Jumli people. The project has created a revolving fund and has allocated 50% of the grant amount ($25.000) to it. Participating community members can easily get a loan from the revolving fund, but only for small-scale green enterprises or livelihood activities. Underprivileged Kami communities are among the indigenous groups in the project area and are the major participants of the programme.
Strategy for Conservation/Poverty Linkages
Provision of alternative livelihoods
Reference 1
http://sgp.undp.org/index.cfm?Module=Projects&Page=ShowProject&ProjectID=4096
Related records above this one:
- Global Environment Facility (GEF) (Organisation O0026)