The economics of ecosystems and biodiversity for water and wetlands : executive summary

This initiative was born from the vision of David Sarmiento, IMARPE field observer and renowned 2023 Leatherback Champion, who decided to go beyond his job. David realized that, in order to achieve effective marine conservation, it was important to build bridges with artisanal fishers, based on mutual trust and respect. Using everyday tools such as local radio stations, social media, and training spaces, David forged an authentic connection with the crews of fishing boats in the cove of San Jose (Lambayeque). His approach combined scientific expertise with a deep human sensitivity. By listening, valuing, and exchanging ideas with the fishers, he enabled them to take the lead in bringing about change. Today, they are the ones who share recordings of rescues, reflections, and data on marine megafauna. Experience shows that conservation is most effective when it stems from strong human relationships and committed local leadership, generating sustainable learning and trust among stakeholders.

Jabal Shada is an isolated twin-mountain granite massif with spectacular scenery characterized by jagged spires, pinnacles, and traditional agricultural terraces. Located in the Al-Baha region in southwestern Saudi Arabia, it supports exceptionally rich floral diversity (nearly 493 recorded plant species) and traditionally important highland crops notably Shadawi coffee. The mountain is both an ecologically isolated element and a cultural landscape. It was declared as a protected area in year 2002 to secure unique biodiversity while supporting local livelihoods and providing nature-based tourism opportunities. Recent management planning emphasizes biodiversity monitoring, community partnerships (including agricultural support and farm-experience tourism), and identification of hiking/ecotourism trails to deliver conservation and socio-economic benefits. 

In Tanzania’s Rufiji Delta, mangroves cover over 53,000 hectares and sustain thousands of people with food, fuel, timber, and coastal protection. Yet, heavy dependence on these forests and weak enforcement of regulations have caused widespread degradation. To address this, communities in Nyamisati, Kiomboni, Mfisini, and Mchinga established the Salale Collaborative Mangrove Management Area under a Participatory Forest Management approach. This grassroots solution empowers local people to co-manage resources, strengthening governance, stewardship, and resilience. With support from partners such as USAID, UNEP, and the Nairobi Convention, communities have restored 10 hectares of mangroves and are actively involved in conservation planning. The initiative addresses habitat loss, livelihood insecurity, and climate threats by ensuring that local stakeholders are at the center of decision-making. The result is both ecological recovery and improved livelihoods, proving that community-led action can safeguard vital ecosystems.

The Alpine Habitat Management initiative in Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, Bhutan, tackles juniper and shrub encroachment that has degraded alpine grasslands vital for wildlife and yak-herding communities. Covering 50 hectares in the Wangjela region (3,300 m asl), the Park applied a participatory restoration approach integrating traditional pastoral knowledge with scientific assessment and adaptive management. Using a “de-branching” technique on juniper trees, combined with the cutting and thinning of juniper bushes and other shrub species. Removing lateral branches of juniper up to 2.5 m above ground while retaining the main stem. The intervention allowed sunlight penetration, encouraging grass regrowth without harming the trees. Yak herders contributed to implementation, monitoring, and feedback. Within six months, palatable grass species increased, improving forage availability. This low-cost, replicable model enhances ecosystem resilience, wildlife habitat, and cultural livelihoods across Bhutan’s alpine landscape

Communities and park officials in Jomotsangkha Wildlife Sanctuary are working hand-in-hand to restore and sustain important wildlife habitats. The sanctuary faced challenges such as declining grasslands, scarce water sources, and growing pressure on natural resources. In response, a participatory habitat management approach was introduced, engaging local people in grassland improvement, construction of waterholes, and development of mineral licks for wildlife. This collaboration has strengthened community ownership, encouraged youth participation, and deepened understanding of conservation. As a result, habitats are healthier, wildlife now has better access to food and water, and people have become active partners in protecting the landscapes around them. The Solution demonstrates how shared responsibility between communities and park authorities can create resilient ecosystems and long-lasting conservation impacts, inspiring continued stewardship.

The Three Sisters Giant Caves are located in Fikirini Village, near Shimoni in Kenya’s coastal Kwale County, within a 10-hectare Kaya Forest of both ecological and cultural importance. Three caves serve as vital roosting sites for several bat species, including the Endangered Hildegarde’s tomb bat (Taphozous hildegardeae), while a fourth cave is reserved for community spiritual practices. Degradation from deforestation, fires, and unsustainable guano harvesting has threatened the site’s integrity. In response, the Tswaka Three Sisters Giant Caves Community-Based Organization (CBO), supported by Bat Conservation International (BCI) and local partners, initiated a community-led effort to restore habitats, enhance protection, and develop eco-tourism as an alternative livelihood pathway that links biodiversity conservation with local economic and cultural resilience. This activity was financed under the GIZ-led IKI Kwale – Tanga Transboundary protection and sustainable management of the marine and coastal regions project.