Biodiversity Participatory Monitoring showcased at international conference

From October 14 to 17, more than 3,000 people from 33 different countries gathered for the third Latin American and Caribbean Congress on Protected Areas in Lima (Peru) to discuss the protection of the region's ecosystems. Their goal was to establish strategies that could ensure the protection of at least 30% of local terrestrial and marine ecosystems by 2030. The Ecological Research Institute (IPÊ) had an active participation in the discussions and took the opportunity to share its experiences with integrated solutions for Amazon Conservation Units (UCs).

One of the panels featured the Biodiversity Participatory Monitoring program (MPB). Marcos Ortiz, who is a professor at ESCAS/IPÊ, made a presentation about a collective knowledge construction methodology known as Knowledge Gatherings. Under this methodology, experts and community members meet to interpret data and collaboratively build knowledge about their territories.

In addition, Pollyana Lemos presented a poster on the program, highlighting the importance of engaging local actors such as women, young people, and children in the monitoring process. She also spoke about the program goal of gathering information to support decision-making in communities. “I am here to tell you how ICMBio, IPÊ, and the communities involved in monitoring will discuss and influence public policy to create a better future and effectively contribute to the conservation of these areas,” Lemos explained.

The MPB has already benefited over 2,200 people. "More than 560 of them have attended the local biodiversity monitoring training course, which has increased their chances of finding work and increased income. Over 400 community members are – or have been – monitors at some point. In addition, a network of local partners was created to implement the project, totaling 25 institutions. It is a network that provides real benefits to all", says Cristina Tófoli, the initiative coordinator.