Publications

Enhancing mountain livelihoods and resilience

08.08.2024

This fact sheet, published by the Mountain Partnership Secretariat of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, highlights initiatives aimed at enhancing livelihoods and resilience in mountain and island ecosystems. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by these regions—from climate change impacts to economic vulnerabilities—the initiatives harness local potential and cultural diversity to promote sustainable development. The Business Incubator and Accelerator for Mountains and Islands initiative focuses on fostering innovative and equitable enterprises in these fragile ecosystems. To date, it supported 55 400 farmers and producers, with a significant impact on women (60 percent), and incubated 140 producer organizations. Collaborations in 2024 with UNDP GEF SGP resulted in 53 grants and 53 acceleration programmes, alongside the labelling of 45 products by the Mountain Partnership in collaboration with Slow Food. Fashion for Fragile Ecosystems addresses the economic disparities faced by artisans in remote mountain areas and islands. By providing technical and financial support, the initiative connects artisans with international fashion designers, promoting the exchange of skills and preserving cultural heritage through contemporary fashion collections showcased globally. Food and Tourism for Fragile Ecosystems, part of the Coalition of Fragile Ecosystems, integrates sustainable tourism with food systems to conserve local ecosystems. It supports small-scale farmers and promotes sustainable agriculture, preserving local gastronomy and raising awareness among visitors about their environmental impact. These initiatives not only strengthen local economies but also preserve cultural heritage and enhance the resilience of communities in mountain and island regions. They exemplify the Mountain Partnership's commitment to sustainable mountain development, livelihood improvement, and ecosystem protection on a global scale.

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