80 / 112
80
Ecosystem restoration is often constrained by the fact that at
several instances, degradation or unsustainable resource use
is often an outcome of short term livelihood need. This in
turn deteriorates critical life-supporting ecosystem services.
There is a need of approaches that can incentivize safeguard-
ing natural resources through transfer of benefits that emanate
from healthy ecosystems to communities. Wetlands Interna-
tional has pioneered an innovative financial mechanism called
Biorights – linking ecosystem restoration and livelihoods
Biorights which addresses poverty trap by integrating sustainable
development and environmental conservation. In return for provi-
sion of micro-credits, local community involves in ecosystem pro-
tection and restoration. Upon successful delivery of conservation
services, these microcredits are converted in definitive payments.
Thus the approach enables community involvement in conserva-
tion while providing sustainable alternatives to harmful develop-
ment practices.
CASE STUDY #29