18 May
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New partnership: Alliance for Mediterranean Nature and Culture

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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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24 Mar
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Co-creando Conocimiento para la Acción con Pastores Trashumantes en España

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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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09 Aug
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New peer-reviewed article: An economic analysis of transhumance in the Central Spanish Pyrenees

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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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11 Nov
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New report: Co-creating Knowledge for Action with Transhumant Herders in Spain

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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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05 Nov
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New Report: Mobile Pastoralism in Mediterranean Landscapes

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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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30 Sep
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New report: Mobile Pastoralism and the World Heritage Convention

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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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03 Jun
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New peer-reviewed article: Mobile Pastoralism and Protected Areas

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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.
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11 May
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Transhumance, Vultures & Veterinarian Diclofenac

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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.
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21 Mar
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A resolution by the UNEA

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The UNEA 4 resolution on "Innovations in Sustainable Rangelands and Pastoralism" urges states to promote sustainable practices and traditional knowledge, support rangeland restoration, and raise awareness globally. It also backs the proposal for an International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralism, recognizing the vital role of mobile pastoralism in conservation efforts.
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09 Jan
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Transhumance and Spirituality in Italy

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For thousands of years, mobile pastoralist communities have shaped landscapes, culture, and spirituality worldwide. In Italy, transhumance exemplifies the deep interaction between people and nature, influencing cultural diversity and spiritual practices. Father Mario Villani, during our interview, highlights the historical and cultural significance of transhumance in Europe.
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19 Dec
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On the Ground Support

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Mobile pastoralists play a vital role in coexistence with carnivores, often impacted by habitat loss and prey scarcity. To address this, we introduced portable electric fences as a non-lethal mitigation measure against predation. In collaboration with Trashumancia y Naturaleza, trials in Turkey with the Koçbıyık family aim to reduce wolf-human conflict effectively.
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16 Dec
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One Square Meter

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One Square Meter is a needle-felt sculpture representing mobile pastoralism’s impact on rangeland flora. As part of the Roads Less Travelled Global initiative, includes contributions from global communities. The Turkish edition, by Avukma Üreten Kadınlar Kooperatifi, premiered in İzmir on December 8-9, 2018, showcasing local plant diversity.
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21 May
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Roads Less Travelled

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Roads Less Travelled has launched globally at the CCRN & IUCN Conference, supporting mobile pastoralists in maintaining their traditional lifestyles and movement. Initiated by Yolda Initiative, DiversEarth, and Trashumancia y Naturaleza, this program aims to connect communities, advocate for their vital role, and address challenges they face worldwide.
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08 Apr
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Spreading Out Roots

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We’re thrilled to announce the expansion of One Square Meter, a needle-felt sculpture linking mobile pastoralism to biodiversity, now involving more women from pastoralist communities globally. This initiative celebrates mobile pastoralism’s benefits while supporting women’s livelihoods and promoting knowledge exchange, empowering communities to engage decision-makers and create lasting change.
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24 Feb
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New report: Mobile Pastoralism in the Mediterranean

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The new report Mobile Pastoralism in the Mediterranean highlights the benefits of this ancient practice for biodiversity, climate change, and rural economies. Despite its advantages, it is often misperceived as unsustainable. The report provides over 100 arguments to help advocate for informed policies supporting pastoralists and their traditions.
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