• Resources
  • IUCN
  • Europe's medicinal and aromatic plants : their use, trade and conservation
Europe's medicinal and aromatic plants : their use, trade and conservation

Europe's medicinal and aromatic plants : their use, trade and conservation

This report reviews European trade and documents the results of in-depth studies in eight countries: Albania, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Hungary, Spain, Turkey and the UK. It identifies 150 species that could be at risk in one or several countries from over-collection in the wild and provides a range of recommendations to assist in the conservation of these species

iucn
Europe
Visit page
Publication
1998
Authors
Lange, Dagmar

Related content

Regeneration of Mangroves and Mobilization of Local Populations, with a Particular Focus on Women and Indigenous Communities, in the Conservation of Ecosystems in the Lokoundjé District (Fifinda)

The Foundation for Environment and Development in Cameroon (FEDEC) implemented a project titled ‘Mangrove Regeneration and Mobilization of Local Communities, Particularly Women and Indigenous Groups, in Ecosystem Conservation in the Lokoundjé District (Fifinda),’ funded by GEF Small Grant from the United Nations Development Program. This initiative aimed to restore 4 hectares of degraded mangrove areas through the replanting of 6,000 mangrove seedlings and fostered community engagement, particularly among the Bakola/Bagyeli indigenous communities, in agroforestry activities. The project also introduced improved fish smoking ovens, reducing deforestation and enhancing local economies. Community education efforts, including the distribution of educational materials and radio broadcasts, raised awareness of mangrove conservation. The combined efforts have not only regenerated vital ecosystems but also empowered local populations with sustainable livelihoods and conservation techniques.

Introduction of artificial reef to reduce pressure on natural coral reef in gulf of Aqaba- Jordan

Background: The Gulf of Aqaba ( GOA)  hosts an extraordinary amount of marine diversity with the existence of corals, reef-building coral, and an unknown number of soft coral species. It is stated that the coral reefs of Jordan are amongst the most diverse per m2 in the world.  

The challenges: This unique ecosystem faces different challenges and threats, among these are the effects of tourism and the huge diving activities especially with the global interest in coral reefs in the Gulf of Aqaba which has encouraged tourists from worldwide to come to Aqaba and practice diving activities wildly, 

The solution: as a  solution to relieves the existing pressure,  several artificial reefs were introduced in the GOA- Jordan; Cedar Pride Shipwreck, Hercules C-130, The Tank, and the Underwater Military Museum. Those artificial reefs have diverted some pressure away from natural reefs while still allowing visitors to enjoy diverse marine life. Additionally, they became a habitat for several coral and other marine species.

Restoration of Seagrass Beds Using Biodegradable Bioplastic-Based Eco-Friendly Planting Frames

The international community aims for carbon neutrality by 2050, recognizing the importance of “blue carbon” in marine ecosystems like seagrass beds. The Korea National Park Service is dedicated to enhancing carbon absorption through the restoration of eelgrass in Hallyeohaesang National Park.

Since 2018, restoration efforts faced challenges with initial transplantation methods showing variable success rates. In 2021, an eco-friendly planting frame using paper egg cartons was developed, but it was inefficient. The following year, biodegradable bioplastic frames were introduced, yet they were too light and restricted eelgrass growth.

In 2023, a new planting frame was created from biodegradable bioplastic with greater density, providing adequate space for eelgrass expansion. This frame was successfully used to restore seagrass beds along the Daegopo coast.

Cultivating Change: Innovative support for small farmers in Adamawa State through Regenerative Agriculture

The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project in Adamawa State, Nigeria, aims to combat land degradation and enhance climate resilience by promoting regenerative agriculture practices. Supported by the World Bank, this 6-year project (2022-28) targets landless smallholder farmers by persuading landowners to lease 2,100 hectares of land rent-free for 10 years.

Regenerative agriculture restores soil health through techniques like no-till farming, mulching, cover cropping, and reducing synthetic chemicals, while integrating livestock and bees into the farming system. These practices aim to rejuvenate soil degraded by intensive farming and promote sustainable agricultural productivity.

This initiative addresses challenges of soil degradation and food insecurity by promoting climate-resilient farming. The project not only restores the land but aims to set a precedent for adopting regenerative agriculture across Nigeria.

 

 

Humedales Urbanos Costeros: lugares que aporten al bien estar ciudadano o “basureros urbanos”

Los humedales urbanos contribuyen de modo importante a que las ciudades sean más agradables para vivir. Reducen las inundaciones, suministran agua potable, filtran desechos, proporcionan zonas verdes urbanas para la recreación, sin embargo, están sometidos a una presión constante y son vulnerables a los efectos del cambio climático. El proyecto Humedales Urbanos Costeros de BIOCITIS (GIZ) trabajo con entes públicos, privados y la sociedad civil para buscar soluciones mancomunadas para atender los desafíos en la gestion de los humedales urbanos, basado en 6 pasos claves:  Diagnostico participativo e interinstitucional del estado de humedales urbanos costeros; Planificación participativo e interinstitucional de soluciones; Fortalecimiento de capacidades de la gestion de humedales Gestión participativa de jornadas de cuidado comunitaria de humedales; Concientización sobre la importancia de humedales y la Integración de humedales urbanos costeros en procesos de políticas públicas.

She Leads Green Action Program:Empowering young women to address climate change challenges in Tanzania

The She Leads Green Action Program (SLGAP) offers women aged 18-35 a six-week immersive experience focused on green actions and environmental sustainability. Through workshops, field trips, and hands-on projects, participants learn about the environment and how they can promote gender equality and lead sustainable actions.
Since its launch in June 2022, SLGAP has trained two cohorts of 60 women, providing them with leadership skills, climate change knowledge, and entrepreneurial tools to foster sustainable development. A major achievement is the rehabilitation of over 1,000 mangroves in Kunduchi Mtongani, enhancing coastal resilience.
The program has also inspired the creation of five women-led social businesses in sustainable agriculture, eco-products, and renewable energy. Additionally, 10 products and prototypes with scale-up potential have been developed, contributing to environmental and economic sustainability.
A strong alumni network ensures continued support through mentorship, coaching, and networking.

Community-led policy advocacy on Natural Resources Management in Kenya

NACOFA gathers community feedback on Forest and Landscape Restoration (FLR) and Natural Resource Management (NRM) challenges, such as degradation. It analyzes existing laws and policies to identify gaps and inconsistencies that hinder effective solutions. To empower its CFA members, NACOFA builds their capacity in policy advocacy, teaching them to influence policymakers, secure inclusion in consultative forums, and impact policy planning and implementation. Collaboration with government bodies like the Ministry of Environment, Kenya Forest Service, and County NRM departments addresses these gaps through policy reviews, amendments, and new regulations. NACOFA also formed coalitions with stakeholders to tackle policy issues. When governments are slow or resistant to change, NACOFA engages in horizontal advocacy by working within government oversight structures, such as Technical Working Groups and Forest Conservation Committees, to influence policy from within.

Climate mitigation using renewable energy through participatory approaches in Bipindi, Cameroon

The “Strengthening Access to Solar Energy for the Bagyeli Indigenous Communities” project in South Cameroon addresses the Bagyeli’s climate change challenges, such as variable rainfall and temperature, which affect their livelihoods. These communities face poverty and vulnerability due to limited access to electricity, impacting education, health, and quality of life. This initiative aims to enhance their resilience by increasing solar energy access, building capacity in solar system maintenance, and raising climate change awareness. Beneficiaries include 500 people and 200 students, primarily women and youth. Expected outcomes include improved solar capacities in schools, enhanced youth skills, solar installations in community centers, and solar kits for 50 families, benefiting over 300 Bagyeli individuals.

Propagation of Indigenous Tree Species in Drylands; A case study of the Red Pod Terminalia in Kenya

Propagation and regeneration of native plant species, such as the Red Pod Terminalia (Terminalia brownii Fresen), pose significant challenges, especially in developing countries where research is limited. Native to the semi-arid regions of East, Central, and West Africa, this drought-tolerant tree offers numerous benefits, including medicinal properties, timber, fuel, and materials for handicrafts. Despite its potential, the population of T. brownii in Kenyan drylands is rapidly declining due to deforestation, ecosystem fragmentation, and overexploitation. The lack of proper seed handling and germination guidelines has hindered the domestication and large-scale planting of this valuable species, affecting livelihoods and the sustainable development of drylands.

One Goal, 100 Trees – We play, We plant advocating environmental stewardship for Youth in Tanzania

The ‘ONE GOAL 100 TREES’ WE PLAY, WE PLANT Campaign is a dynamic initiative targeting youth at universities and colleges, using football as a powerful tool to promote environmental conservation. The campaign links the excitement of football with the goal of planting trees, encouraging students to score goals both on field and for the planet. For every goal scored in matches or tournaments, a commitment of 100 trees to be planted per score. This approach not only fosters teamwork and competition but also raises awareness about environmental issues, empowering students to actively contribute to a greener future. Through tree planting events and collaborations with university football clubs, the campaign inspires a culture of sustainability and responsibility among young people.

Habitat Conservation Activities for Endangered Plants in Yangsan Wondong Wetland

Wondong Wetland in Yangsan, Korea, is a rare habitat for Korea’s endangered plants, such as the Viola raddeana Regel and Pterygopleurum neurophyllum (Maxim.) Kitag.. In particular, it is known as the only habitat in Korea for Pterygopleurum neurophyllum (Maxim.) Kitag. Wondong Wetland is a wetland behind the Nakdong River that was once used as agricultural land and was restored to its natural state. However, as plants such as silver grass expanded, the population of endangered plants decreased due to competition. To expand the population of the two endangered plants, an event was held in February 2023 (winter season) with citizens to cut down grass, including silver grass, a competing species. As a result, the germination rate of the two plant species increased, and their habitat range expanded. Grass cutting was also carried out in February 2024, and it is planned to be carried out in the future before the germination period in February every year.

The TREEO Technology: A Certified digital Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (dMRV) tool for tree-planting efforts

The TREEO Technology – the first dMRV tool certified under the Global Tree C-Sink standard from Carbon Standards International – lets you prove your tree planting efforts to your stakeholders through forest inventory and even carbon sequestration calculations. The TREEO App works through image processing and machine learning models based on tree allometry, which allow for the calculation of biomass (thus the amount of carbon in a tree) by measuring the tree’s diameter at breast height (DBH). The App then calculates the CO2 sequestered by tree in a matter of seconds. When the trees are small (with a DBH less than 3 cm and less than 1.3 m in height), you can still report tree evidence for your inventory and survival rate estimations via the App. The TREEO App also collects other data such as GPS coordinates, GPS accuracy, and azimuth, as well as tree species. This information is uploaded and stored on the TREEO Cloud, our data management system where you can manage your project, teams, and data.