Interactive session
Join us for interactive sessions where we will explore how the rights of nature, equity and inclusion are fundamental to conservation.
1. Accelerating Evidenced-based Decision-Making in Conservation: From Theory to Reality
Description: The Conservation Standards is a widely adopted set of principles and practices that brings together common concepts, approaches, and terminology for applying adaptive planning and management to conservation initiatives. In addition to an overview of the Conservation Standards framework, participants will be introduced to the development of a Situation Analysis and Theory of Change using a real-life case study. This session is designed for people interested in learning more about the practical application of adaptive management to support and accelerate the practice of conservation globally. By applying adaptive management to develop robust conservation plans, internal monitoring and operational mechanisms will become more efficient and effective, saving time, money, and effort in achieving meaningful outcomes for nature and people.
Name of organizer and Affiliation: Josh Noseworthy- Global Conservation Solutions
Language: English
Duration of the activity: 75 minutes
Number of participants: 50
Date: Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Time: 9:30 to 11:00
Location: Aula Magna Teología
Registration: open at the following link
2. Efforts and Challenges in Freshwater Conservation under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
Description: Freshwater ecosystems, which cover 1% of the Earth's surface, harbor 10% of biodiversity, including 51% of described fish species. These ecosystems sustain the livelihoods of numerous communities, Indigenous peoples, and thousands of vulnerable families, providing invaluable value for biodiversity, culture, and human development. The accelerated loss of these ecosystems and their biodiversity represents a global crisis that threatens countless ecosystem services. One-third of freshwater species, including 25% of fish species, are at risk of extinction, endangering the balance of ecosystems and numerous environmental services. As of 2022, the Global Biodiversity Framework recognized the urgency of effectively restoring, managing, and conserving 30% of freshwater ecosystems. It also called for halting the extinction of threatened species and promoting their sustainable use (e.g., fish species). In Latin America, the loss and degradation of wetlands are estimated to be greater than in other parts of the world, and freshwater conservation efforts are lagging compared to those dedicated to terrestrial and marine areas. Therefore, there is a need to maximize coordinated strategic efforts with existing organizations and networks. The goal of this interactive session is to highlight the importance and urgency of conserving freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as to identify potential leaders and collaborative actions that can maximize joint efforts in the region.
Name of organizer and Affiliation: Yasmin Quintana - IUCN SSC Center for Species Survival: Freshwater, Shedd Aquarium
Language: Spanish
Duration of the activity: 3 hours
Number of participants: 50
Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024
Time: 11:30 to 13:30
Location: Aula Magna Teología
Registration: open at the following link
3. Community Leadership, Development, and Conservation
Description: This proposal seeks to comprehensively address the challenges faced by Ecuador's coastal communities, focusing on marine pollution, biodiversity loss, and the degradation of ecosystems such as mangroves. Through a community leadership approach, we aim to strengthen local capacities by training people of all ages in sustainable fishing practices and promoting responsible tourism as an economic driver. Community development will be promoted through the implementation of green employment programs that will create job opportunities and foster the development of new local leaders. This includes the creation of community gardens that will not only improve food security but also engage young people in sustainable practices. In terms of conservation, we will organize activities such as beach cleanups and wildlife rescues, with a focus on species like turtles, birds, among others, complemented by environmental education workshops. These initiatives are designed to actively involve the community and foster a culture of respect and care for the environment. Our goal is to establish a sustainable model that integrates community leadership, economic development, and ecosystem conservation, empowering communities to face current challenges and protect their natural heritage for future generations. We aspire to create an environment where community well-being and ocean health coexist harmoniously.
Name of organizer and Affiliation: Enrique Mero Cedeño - Salvando Ecosistemas
Language: Spanish
Duration of the activity: 75 minutes
Number of participants: 80
Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024
Time: 15:00 to 16:00
Location: Auditorio 4 Torre 1
Registration: open at the following link
4. Rights of Nature: challenges and opportunities for their application in favour of conservation
Description: The interactive session aims to create a space to share experiences about the challenges and opportunities presented by the Rights of Nature (DDNN) in Ecuador and the region, and how these can contribute to conservation. It will begin with an introduction to the DDNN, followed by presentations from the speakers, each presenting their perspectives based on their experiences. The speakers include Elisa Levy (Los Cedros/OMASNE), Natalia Greene (GARN), Blanca Ríos (UDLA), and Paulina Rosero (UCE), who will discuss topics such as the implementation of the DDNN, the role of education and research, and community participation in defending nature. Then, the moderator, Ramiro Ávila, will connect these ideas with how research can enhance the implementation of the DDNN and contribute to conservation. The session will conclude with a space for questions and interaction with attendees, fostering enriching dialogue.
Name of organizer and Affiliation: Elisa Levy (Los Cedros/OMASNE) and Natalia Greene (GARN)
Language: Spanish
Duration of the activity: 75 minutes
Number of participants: 80
Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2024
Time: 9:30 to 11:00
Location: Auditorio 3 Torre 1
Registration: open at the following link
5. LGBTQ+ Forum: Promoting inclusion and equity in conservation biology
Description: This meeting aims to create a safe and collaborative space for members of the LGBT+ community and their allies. The gathering will focus on the exchange of experiences and perspectives regarding the current challenges of inclusion and equity in Latin America and the Caribbean. Additionally, it will promote collaboration to develop strategies that strengthen the rights and visibility of the LGBT+ community in the region. It will be an informal meeting where participants can discuss their experiences and reflect on how to collectively address the issues affecting the community, fostering an atmosphere of support and solidarity. The event represents an opportunity to build support networks and design joint actions that contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future.
Name of organizer and Affiliation: Osvaldo Eric Ramírez Bravo - SCB LACA
Language: Spanish
Duration of the activity: 75 minutes
Number of participants: 10
Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2024
Time: 15:00 to 16:00
Location: Aula Magna de Teología
Registration: open at the following link