Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

Understanding the Economics of Mobile Pastoralism: Fieldwork with Sarıkeçililer

We recently conducted fieldwork to enhance the economic capacity and resilience of the Sarıkeçili nomadic pastoralists. Our visits included discussions with families about production activities, labour dynamics, and challenges faced in meat and dairy production. We observed critical issues regarding pasture access, impacted by agricultural encroachment, climate change, and wildfires.
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Climate, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

A Presentation about Mobile Pastoralism and Climate at the Parliamentary Research Committee on the Impact of Global Climate Change

We presented “Mobile Pastoralism and the Climate Crisis” at the Parliamentary Research Committee meeting on June 23, 2021. Our discussion highlighted how mobile pastoralism sustains rangelands, minimizes fossil fuel use, reduces industrial inputs, prevents forest fires, and supports ecosystem resilience and water cycles.
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Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

New Project Support!

Yolda Initiative, in collaboration with Sarıkeçililer Survival and Solidarity Association and Innovation for Development, secured funding from the Embassy of France for the project "A retro-innovative perspective for sustainable economies: Mobile Pastoralism." The project aims to develop sustainable economic models for mobile pastoralism, linking biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation.
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Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

“Pastoralism: A crucial way to tackle sustainability challenges in EU and beyond” Webinar Notes

The European Committee of the Regions, Yolda Initiative, and Euromontana hosted a workshop on 14 June, advocating for pastoralism's preservation. Experts highlighted pastoralism’s role in sustainability, rural community resilience, biodiversity, and climate change. Calls for an EU action plan and global recognition through the 2026 International Year of Rangelands were emphasized.
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Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

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.
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fp, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

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.
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fp, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

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.
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fp, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

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.
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fp, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

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.
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fp, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

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. 
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fp, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

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.
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