Climate, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News, Small-Scale Fisheries

Yolda contributes to the to multiple objectives of the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters”.

We are proud to announce that our Saros Bay Conservation and Restoration Planning Project has received endorsement from the European Commission as playing a central role in contributing to multiple objectives of the EU Mission "Restore our Ocean and Waters". This endorsement not only strengthens our commitment to protecting and restoring this ecologically and culturally rich area along Turkey’s Aegean coast but also highlights the importance of our project in driving transformative change in the Mediterranean. It integrates our work into the broader European commitment to marine #conservation and #sustainability.
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Climate, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

A Cultural Practice in the Struggle against the Climate Crisis: The Case of Sarıkeçililer Workshop

On World Environment Day, we’re at the Kadıköy Environment Festival, sharing insights on mobile pastoralism and Sarıkeçili nomadic pastoralists under Geççi’s goat-hair tent. We'll highlight how local communities like the Sarıkeçililer, with centuries-old practices, contribute to biodiversity and the climate crisis fight.
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Nature & Culture, News

New Collaboration: Foodnected

Foodnected connects people and nature through local, fair, and sustainable food systems by bridging producers and consumers and establishing ethical environmental and social standards. Yolda integrates the traditional lands of Sarıkeçili nomadic pastoralists into the project and coordinates AMNC’s involvement. Stay tuned for more Foodnected activities!
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Climate, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

Understanding the Ecological Footprint of Mobile Pastoralism in Turkey: Fieldwork with Sarıkeçililer

In our recent fieldwork, we mapped the migration routes of mobile pastoralists in Turkey, collected data on traditional ecological knowledge, and examined the ecological benefits of this system. We found that mobile pastoralism, unlike industrial systems, relies minimally on high-carbon-footprint feed, supporting healthier livestock and ecosystems. Special thanks to the Sarıkeçililer Survival and Solidarity Association for their support.
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Nature & Culture, News

New Publication: Making way – Developing national legal and policy frameworks for pastoral mobility

A new publication from the FAO's Pastoralist Knowledge Hub, "Making Way: Developing National Legal and Policy Frameworks for Pastoral Mobility," has been released. Co-authored by Michael Odhiambo and Pablo Manzano, with contributions from Engin Yılmaz of Yolda Initiative, it aims to guide legal frameworks securing pastoral mobility. 
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Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

Our Call to UNFCCC COP 26 Participants

As COP26 begins, it's crucial to recognize mobile pastoralism as a pioneer in sustainable livestock production. It supports livelihoods, reduces fossil fuel reliance, and plays a vital role in mitigating the climate crisis. By fostering resilient ecosystems and carbon sequestration, mobile pastoralism is an essential pathway toward achieving global net-zero goals. Supporting this system is not only necessary for climate action but also for securing food for hundreds of millions who rely on it. Let’s ensure mobile pastoralists' voices are heard in global climate debates and policies.
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Climate, Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

New Publication: Are livestock always bad for the planet?

The new PASTRES report on pastoralism and climate change highlights the overlooked climate benefits of low-impact pastoral farming, cautioning against decisions based on misleading data. It emphasizes the differences between extensive livestock production and factory farming, urging better consideration of sustainable practices in climate and food debates.
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Mobile Pastoralism, Nature & Culture, News

Mobile Pastoralism as a tool to Combat Wildfires

Nomadic pastoralists like the Sarıkeçililer help prevent fires through grazing practices that reduce dry grass and leaf litter. Despite their crucial role in combating fires and climate change, they face increasing restrictions on accessing traditional habitats. Protecting pastures and ensuring access is vital for both fire prevention and climate resilience.
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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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Climate, Mobile Pastoralism, News, Uncategorized

On the Move for Spring Migration: Day 7

Mobile pastoralism, illustrated by the Bacak family's migration, offers significant benefits for water cycle regulation. It reduces water resource pressure, prevents nutrient leaching, and maintains traditional water infrastructures supporting biodiversity. Mobile livestock consume water sustainably and enhance soil structure, demonstrating minimal environmental impact.
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