Conservation of Urban
Natural Areas
The Conservation of Urban Natural Areas Program (ConBio), jointly developed by SPVS and its partners over the past 23 years in Curitiba (PR) and its Metropolitan Region, focuses on conserving nature in urban and peri-urban settings. This initiative aims to assist private landowners in adopting conservation practices and promoting the establishment of protected natural areas, yielding distinctive long-term results. To achieve this goal, the Program collaborates with individuals, as well as government and private organizations, committed to preserving natural resources and biodiversity through various practices.
Through its efforts, the Program enhances the quality of life for residents of the municipality and its environs. It also contributes to meeting international goals and agreements, mitigating the impacts of climate change, bolstering the resilience of major urban centers, and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Foto: Zig Koch©
Why should I support this initiative?
By supporting the Program, you will be actively contributing to solutions aimed at addressing the growing challenges cities face, particularly those linked to climate change. According to reports from the United Nations (UN), by 2050, approximately 77% of the global population will reside in urban areas. It's crucial that this rapid urbanization aligns with biodiversity conservation strategies to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events like droughts or floods, exacerbated by the decreasing availability of ecosystem services.
Our supporters also have the chance to incorporate these endeavors into their social and environmental responsibility reports, facilitating communication and awareness-raising initiatives, and earning points in certifications such as LIFE Certification. Participation in the Program also establishes a channel that fosters closer collaboration between organizations, public authorities, and natural area owners, enabling the attainment of long-term, large-scale results. These solutions present a significant competitive edge and can even be showcased at international events, inspiring other companies and decision-makers.
A global agenda that demands territorial action
In order for a city to advance in its quest for sustainability, it must adhere to various indicators and goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the commitments outlined in the 2030 Agenda. This agenda comprises a global action plan aimed at fostering a decent quality of life for people worldwide. The document, unanimously agreed upon by 193 UN member states, comprehensively addresses the three dimensions of sustainable development: social, environmental, and economic. It emphasizes the critical role of implementation by governments, the private sector, and every citizen committed to safeguarding a brighter future for generations to come.
ConBio offers pathways to accomplish numerous proposed goals while also aligning with the objectives of the Paris Agreement, which mandates the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions—to which Brazil is a signatory. By advocating for the preservation of urban natural areas, the Program and its partners emerge as allies in conserving vital natural resources and ecosystem services, including water springs, temperature regulation, and air quality. This collaboration supports Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA), an innovative approach for managers to consider when making investment decisions aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change and minimizing its socio-economic and environmental repercussions.
Municipalities and government agencies can leverage ConBio as a valuable resource for developing public policies. By understanding the local reality, needs, and priorities of the environmental agenda in their jurisdictions, local authorities can, for instance, bolster innovative mechanisms to promote conservation efforts.
Furthermore, another direct benefit is extended to the owners of natural areas who receive technical support from the Program for managing their properties. This collaboration ensures that actions undertaken within these areas adhere to appropriate parameters. Additionally, it offers opportunities for owners to establish Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs) and engage in conservation initiatives in collaboration with other sectors.
Are you interested in supporting or joining Program? Please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have or to discuss how to initiate partnership proposals.
Results
ConBio's methodology is hailed as a successful model for biodiversity conservation in urban settings, deserving replication in various regions and contexts. Recognizing this, the Program was showcased during two editions of the world's largest climate event, the United Nations Climate Conference (COP), in 2015 in Paris (France) and in 2017 in Bonn (Germany). In 2016, ConBio received the prestigious Hugo Werneck Award for Sustainability & Love of Nature in the "best example of flora" category, along with securing 2nd place in the von Martius Sustainability Award.
These accolades reflect the impact of the Program, with over 1,500 public and private properties with native vegetation receiving guidance on conservation management and the establishment of Conservation Units. In the realm of education, the Program engaged over 3,400 public school teachers, produced numerous informative materials distributed free of charge, and offered various free courses for landowners, students, and interested individuals. A notable achievement was the development of the "Guidelines for Biodiversity Conservation in the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba," serving as a guiding document for municipalities to adopt innovative actions aimed at mitigating extreme weather events.
ConBio has played a proactive role in shaping innovative public policies, including the establishment of the legal framework for Municipal Natural Heritage Reserves in Curitiba. This framework offers economic incentives to owners of areas with native vegetation. Additionally, ConBio has contributed to the revision of Curitiba's Municipal Environmental Policy, promoting integrated management of natural heritage with the Metropolitan Region. Furthermore, the Program has been involved in the drafting of Curitiba's Climate Action Plan (PlanClima).
The Program has also contributed to the revision of the Master Plans of numerous municipalities, offering technical guidance on issues related to its initiatives. Furthermore, its activities are directly involved in the development and implementation of Payment for Environmental Services (PES) programs in the cities of Piraquara and São José dos Pinhais within the Curitiba metropolitan region. ConBio has also participated in the establishment of the SDG Commission in Piraquara, which convenes various representatives from municipal councils to deliberate on the 2030 Agenda in the region.
DISCOVER WHO SUPPORTS THE CONSERVATION EFFORTS FOR THE RED-TAILED PARROT AND THE VINACEOUS-BREASTED PARROT.
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Content in Portuguese (Brazil).