Ripple Effect: Common Ground

Activists convene for climate change. [For the best experience, read in browser]( [ripple effect logo ] Welcome back! Curious about the latest and greatest policies for tackling climate change? Our friend Cristina Mittermeier from the nonprofit SeaLegacy shares what she learned last month at the World Wilderness Congress, the longest-running public environmental forum. Plus, find out how you can get involved in protecting public lands (and seas). Without further ado…   [A man paddles in a canoe in the ocean.]( Indigenous communities, like the the Kuna People of the San Blas Islands in Panama, have long protected the oceans, including coral reefs. (Photo by Cristina Mittermeier) As conservationists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by enormous problems that loom over us, like biodiversity loss and climate change. Our efforts might feel like a drop in the bucket. I’m frequently asked, “What can I do to help?” One way forward is attending conservation conferences like the World Wilderness Congress, which I participated in last month in Rapid City, South Dakota (and which is, unlike some of these events, open to the public). I witnessed Indigenous leaders, scientists, lawyers, photographers, and entrepreneurs unite with a common goal: protecting the world’s remaining wilderness. Powerful speakers shared their stories, delegates networked between sessions or over dinner, and partnerships formed that can drive real impact. [A humpback whale breaches the ocean.]( A humpback whale breaches the ocean. (Photo by Cristina Mittermeier) A key element of WILD12 are the resolutions the attending delegates drafted, submitted, debated, and voted on. While these discussions often start in small rooms, they can have the power to shape global conservation efforts for years to come — and even end up at high-level governing bodies like the United Nations. It was in 2005 at WILD8 that I founded the International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP), launching the concept of conservation photography, which has since grown into a global movement. WILD12 made history as the first Indigenous-led World Wilderness Congress, with a central focus on amplifying Indigenous voices in conservation. Indigenous leaders worldwide advocated for their rights and Traditional Knowledge to be recognized in wilderness management. The use of Traditional Knowledge, such as the Pacific Islanders’ Rāhui — a temporary fishing ban to promote ecosystem recovery — demonstrates ancient Indigenous methods of ecosystem management, rooted in a deep understanding of the interconnectedness between people and the natural world. Traditional Knowledge embodies the principles of the Rights of Nature movement, a holistic recognition of ecosystems as living entities with their own rights, aligning with the Indigenous belief that humans are not separate from nature but an integral part of it. At WILD12, it was clear that empowering Indigenous leadership is critical to a sustainable future. [A young boy looks into the water.]( As young Pacific Islander in Hawaii. (Photo by Cristina Mittermeier) This focus on Indigenous-led conservation relates to the resolution I presented at WILD12, urging governments to ratify the [High Seas Treaty.]( It exemplifies how Indigenous rights and ocean conservation are inherently connected, and it would incorporate Indigenous rights into international ocean management, recognizing that marine protection is inseparable from Indigenous peoples’ cultural integrity and food sovereignty. The treaty would also provide the legal framework needed to establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in international waters. The Nature Needs Half initiative asserts that 50 percent of the world (and 30 percent of the oceans) must be protected by 2030 if we are to turn the tide against biodiversity loss and climate change. With over 60 percent of our oceans falling within international waters, the High Seas Treaty is essential if we are to meet this ambitious target. In order for the High Seas Treaty to take effect, 60 countries must ratify it. So far, only eight countries have done so. The resolution I presented calls for a deadline of June 2025 for countries to ratify this essential agreement. This date aligns with the UN Ocean Conference and the IUCN World Conservation Congress, each of which only happen once every few years. [A young woman stands in front of the ocean. ]( For Coast Salish Peoples like Ta’Kaia Blaney, healthy oceans and salmon are vital to their way of life. (Photo by Cristina Mittermeier) This resolution was officially adopted by the delegates with an overwhelming vote of 50-1, meaning that it has become an official position of the World Wilderness Congress and will serve as a guiding principle for global conservation efforts. So, where do we go from here? Alongside this resolution, my team and I have been curating a [petition]( backed by Indigenous Peoples, scientists, nonprofits, WILD12 delegates, and anyone else who wishes to add their endorsement. This collective voice will strengthen our efforts to rally support and urge government officials in countries that have yet to ratify the High Seas Treaty. Our oceans and the communities that depend on them cannot afford to wait another few years. Our time to act is now. As our petition continues to grow, we invite everyone to add their names and join this meaningful movement.   We'll see you for our next edition on Tuesday, Sept. 24! Questions or comments? Email us at info@katiecouric.com Update your preferences or [unsubscribe]( If you buy something through this email, KCM may earn a commission. Katie Couric Media, 75 Varick St, Ste 12, New York, NY - 10013-1917 Copyright © 2024 Katie Couric Media, All rights reserved.