This World Environment Day, led by the UN Environment Programme, highlights solutions for land restoration, halting desertification, and building drought resilience while raising awareness about critical environmental issues like climate change and chemical pollution.‍

‍3.2 billion people, or 40% of the world’s population,are impacted by land degradation, which disproportionately affects those who are least equipped to cope – rural communities, smallholder farmers and the extremely poor, especially women and youth (UNEP).‍

Ecosystems’ restoration boosts livelihoods, reduces poverty and builds resilience to extreme weather. At the Swarovski Foundation,we believe that to promote sustainable livelihoods through education to reduce inequality we must empower local communities with the knowledge and resources for environmental conservation and economic resilience to address these global challenges.

Conservation International Costa Rica - Building Sustainable Community Livelihoods

‍Protecting nature and restoring some of what has been lost accounts for at least 30% of all global action needed to stabilize our climate (Conservation International). With the Swarovski Foundation's support, Conservation International Costa Rica has made significant progress in restoring Chira Island's mangrove ecosystems and promoting sustainable production alternatives across the Gulf of Nicoya.

At the Punta Flor rehabilitation site on Chira Island, 37 channels have been excavated, aiding the recovery of 5 hectares of mangrove. Over 4 years, 74 channels spanning 2,295 meters have led to 11,000+ naturally established seedlings and increased wildlife, earning recognition as a national restoration site.

The Montero women's group raised 1,667 seedlings in a new nursery funded by a microgrant, also serving as an educational center. Knowledge exchanges and workshops between communities have improved restoration techniques and skills in ecotourism and organic agriculture, yielding 400 kilograms of diverse agricultural products since December 2023.

Negotiations with a cooperative in the Nicoya Peninsula aim to market these products, ensuring fair distribution and promoting sustainability. A total of 39 people from 6 communities have shown growing commitment to sustainable development and a healthy marine ecosystem.

Generation Restoration

You can do something too! Get involved in projects near you such as volunteering for local restoration projects, participating in educational programmes at nurseries, purchasing products from sustainable sources, and advocating for policies that protect our ecosystems.

We cannot turn back time, but we can grow forests, revive water sources, and bring back soils. By joining forces, we can give nature a helping hand and forge a more sustainable world for generations to come. Learn more and get involved at worldenvironmentday.global/