Conclusion
3. Embrace Indigenous Peoples’ traditional knowledge
Indigenous Peoples’ traditional knowledge has played an important role in preserving and restoring biodiversity worldwide, and incorporating this wisdom into modern conservation practices is crucial. For instance, the Indigenous P’ganyaw (Karen) communities along Thailand’s Mae Ngao River have created more than 50 so called “no-take river reserves”—protected zones banning extractive activities—to boost fish stocks.
These small, community-based reserves set clear fishing boundaries along the river and enforce penalties for violations. Because freshwater ecosystems are interconnected, this network of reserves is a model for preventing further biodiversity loss.
UNEP’s SDG 6.6.1 support program, which focuses on water-basin management, highlights the use of this traditional knowledge through monitoring and evaluation of changes in freshwater ecosystems.
4. Tap into new tools for managing freshwater
There are several resources that can help countries manage their lakes, rivers and aquifers. For example, UNEP’s Freshwater Explorer and Global Wetlands Watch monitors the status of freshwater ecosystems worldwide.
These tools draw from best practices around the world and highlight the need for water governance to protect freshwater ecosystems. As well, UNEP’s Integrated Water Resource Management Support Program can guide governments in their efforts to better manage water and reach their development goals.
5. Embrace integrated water resource management
The coordinated management of freshwater ecosystems, including through a process known as integrated water resource management, can build resilience to climate-related disasters, such as drought.
For example, in drought-wracked Somalia, the European Union and UNEP are helping communities to build boreholes, rehabilitate shallow wells for irrigation and introduce highly efficient drip irrigation for crops. This holistic approach is designed to help stretch out available water resources and prevent displacement.
More than 90 percent of “natural” disasters are related to water in some way. Experts say embracing integrated water resource management is critical to reducing the frequency and magnitude of these calamities. UNEP News
