Biodiversity is integral to local development, but its use must be sustainable. Recognising the intricate link between humans and wildlife, the Small Grants Programme by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, with support from the Federal Government of Germany through the KfW Development Bank, has been implementing community-based projects on biodiversity conservation, natural resource management, and sustainable livelihood in selected ASEAN Heritage Parks. Balancing the connection between humans and nature requires habitat restoration and multi-stakeholder engagement among park management, other government agencies, and local communities. More than conserving the rich biodiversity of these protected areas and providing sustainable livelihood opportunities to their people, the SGP demonstrates how protected area management is more effective if all stakeholders work harmoniously together towards a common goal. |