Important IYRP decision at FAO Conference
The proposal for the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists has been endorsed by the FAO Conference!
Mobile Pastoralism
Following the traces of Nature and Culture Co-existence: Fieldwork in Tunceli
Our fieldwork in Tunceli examined how mobile pastoralism influences artisanal production, exploring traditional rugs and local crafts. We visited several villages, met pastoral families, and discussed challenges with locals. The journey highlighted the deep connection between nature, culture, and nomadic life, particularly through weaving and sacred places like Munzur Gözeleri.
“Pastoralism: A crucial way to tackle sustainability challenges in EU and beyond” Webinar
Join our webinar on 14th June, co-organised by the European Union Committee of Regions, Yolda Initiative, and Euromontana. The event will highlight the importance of pastoralism for sustainability, climate adaptation, and biodiversity, while addressing challenges facing pastoralists.
Recognising Pastoralists for their Knowledge, Local Breeds and Biodiversity Conservation
Join us this Saturday for a webinar on pastoralists' knowledge and biodiversity conservation, supporting 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.
New partnership: Alliance for Mediterranean Nature and Culture
We are excited to announce the creation of the Alliance for Mediterranean Nature and Culture (AMNC), a collaborative effort supported by the MAVA Foundation. Over the years, AMNC partners have expanded their capacity, uniting to conserve traditional cultural practices and halt biodiversity loss in the Mediterranean. AMNC believes that nature and culture are deeply interconnected, delivering essential environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Co-creando Conocimiento para la Acción con Pastores Trashumantes en España
El informe examina la relevancia y rentabilidad de la trashumancia en España, desafiando la idea de su desaparición. A través de observaciones y entrevistas con pastores, el estudio muestra cómo el conocimiento trashumante sigue adaptándose al contexto actual, enfrentando retos significativos para su continuidad a largo plazo.
New peer-reviewed article: An economic analysis of transhumance in the Central Spanish Pyrenees
Our peer-reviewed paper "An Economic Analysis of Transhumance in the Central Spanish Pyrenees" by María E. Fernández-Giménez and John Ritten provides the first published analysis comparing the profitability of different livestock systems in this region. The study, part of the Roads Less Travelled global program, shows that transhumance (both on foot and by truck) is more profitable than semi-extensive systems, challenging the common belief that transhumance is a fading practice.
New report: Co-creating Knowledge for Action with Transhumant Herders in Spain
The report "Co-creating Knowledge for Action with Transhumant Herders in Spain" by Yolda Initiative examines the traditional knowledge and realities of contemporary transhumance in Spain through participant observation and interviews. Findings show transhumance remains relevant but faces challenges. The study includes case studies, benefits, challenges, and an economic analysis.
New Report: Mobile Pastoralism in Mediterranean Landscapes
The report "Mobile Pastoralism in Mediterranean Landscapes" by Yolda Initiative for Roads Less Travelled highlights the status of mobile pastoralism in five Mediterranean pilot sites. It addresses how traditional practices, crucial for ecological integrity, face modern threats. The report outlines local efforts and partnerships to conserve these practices.
New report: Mobile Pastoralism and the World Heritage Convention
The report "Mobile Pastoralism and the World Heritage Convention" by Roads Less Travelled Global explores the role of mobile pastoralism in conservation. It introduces the concepts of mobile pastoralism, examines its interaction with World Heritage sites, and provides case studies. The study aims to offer recommendations for integrating pastoralism with conservation efforts.
New peer-reviewed article: Mobile Pastoralism and Protected Areas
Our paper, "Mobile Pastoralism and Protected Areas: Conflict, Collaboration and Connectivity," has just been published in PARKS: The International Journal of Protected Areas and Conservation. Co-authored with DiversEarth and Asociación Trashumancia y Naturaleza, it highlights the crucial role of mobile pastoralism in promoting landscape connectivity and conservation, backed by case studies like Spanish-drove road mapping.
Transhumance, Vultures & Veterinarian Diclofenac
Mobile pastoralism is a highly sustainable livestock management system that benefits both people and nature. In Spain, the relationship between transhumant shepherds and vultures exemplifies mutualism. Vultures scavenge livestock carcasses, preventing disease spread and reducing predator populations. However, veterinary Diclofenac endangers vultures. Yolda Initiative, with partners, campaigns to raise awareness and protect both pastoralism and vultures.
On the Move for Spring Migration: Day 15
Mobile pastoralists, such as the Sarıkeçili of Turkey, demonstrate significant resilience and adaptability to climate change through their mobility, use of local breeds, and communal land management. Their traditional practices support biodiversity and sustainable resource use, making them key allies in climate adaptation efforts.
On the Move for Spring Migration: Day 14
Mobile pastoralism, exemplified by the Bacak family's migration in Turkey, is highlighted as a climate-friendly livestock farming system. It reduces fossil fuel use, maintains carbon-rich soils, and sustains ecosystems, making it a crucial tool for climate change adaptation and mitigation and biodiversity conservation.
On the Move for Spring Migration: Day 13
The Bacak family's spring migration in Turkey underscores mobile pastoralism's role in biodiversity and climate-friendly practices. Their use of livestock-guarding dogs offers insights into human-wildlife coexistence. Addressing habitat loss and integrating pastoralist knowledge with scientific expertise fosters harmonious coexistence.
On the Move for Spring Migration: Day 12
The Bacak family's spring migration in Turkey demonstrates mobile pastoralism’s role in enhancing habitat heterogeneity and biodiversity. Their movement improves structural and functional ecosystem connectivity, vital for species diversity and resilience. Conservation measures are essential to support and preserve these migration routes.
