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In a recent UN-supported study compiled by over 550 researchers, it was found that species of plants and animals are disappearing at alarming rates, and if not stopped, this loss could result in a sixth mass global extinction in our lifetime(Green , 2019). Biodiversity, the collective term for the full variety of life on Earth, is crucial for sustainable development as it provides clean water, oxygen, and all other things that end up being part of our diet, as well as clothing and shelter. Dr. Thomas Lovejoy, a tropical and conservation biologist, discusses the importance of biodiversity, the biggest threats to it, and effective policies for Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land. He also highlights how protecting biodiversity can help mitigate climate change and the challenges faced by the international community in preserving biodiversity on a global scale(Green , 2019).
Organizations & National Parks in Taiwan
Taiwan has several projects, organizations, and national parks focused on protecting biodiversity through sustainable development. For example, The Taiwan Forestry Research Institute (TFRI) is a government agency that conducts research on forestry and conservation in Taiwan. It aims to promote sustainable development of Taiwan's forest resources and biodiversity conservation. The Taiwan Endemic Species Research Institute (TESRI) is another government agency that focuses on the conservation of Taiwan's endemic species. TESRI conducts research on the ecology, behavior, and genetics of endemic species and works to protect their habitats. In addition, Kenting National Park is a national park located in southern Taiwan. It is home to a diverse range of species, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and migratory birds. The park works to protect these species through sustainable tourism and conservation programs.
Photo from:Kenting National Park Official Website
Kenting National Park
Kenting National Park is a national park located in the southern Taiwan, covering an area of 181 square kilometers. It was established in 1984 and is the oldest and the southernmost national park in Taiwan. The park is home to a diverse range of species, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and migratory birds. It has a warm, tropical climate and coastline stretches for more than 80 kilometers, offering visitors opportunities for swimming, surfing, and other water activities. In addition to its marine life, the park is home to several terrestrial species, such as the Formosan macaque, the Taiwan cobra, and the Chinese egret.
Kenting National Park has several programs aimed at promoting sustainable development and protecting the environment. For example, the park has implemented a waste reduction program that encourages visitors to recycle and reduce their waste. The park also has a coral reef conservation program that works to protect the park's diverse marine ecosystem. Overall, Kenting National Park is an important site for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in Taiwan. It offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy Taiwan's natural beauty while also promoting the protection of its unique and diverse species.
Great Mission
Kenting National Park's mission is to preserve and protect the park's unique natural and cultural resources while promoting sustainable development and providing educational opportunities for visitors.
Specifically, the park aims to:
- Preserve and protect the park's diverse species and ecosystems, including its coral reefs, marine life, and terrestrial wildlife.
- Promote sustainable development in the park by encouraging responsible tourism and protecting the park's natural resources for future generations.
- Provide educational opportunities for visitors to learn about the park's ecology, culture, and history.
- Conduct research and monitoring programs to better understand and manage the park's ecosystems and resources.
- Collaborate with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote conservation and sustainable development in the park and its surrounding areas.
Overall, the park's mission is to balance conservation and sustainable development while providing visitors with a unique and enjoyable experience that promotes awareness and appreciation of Taiwan's natural and cultural heritage.
Biodiversity & Sustainability Development Program
There are several biodiversity and sustainable development programs in Kenting National Park aimed at promoting the conservation of the park's natural and cultural resources while also promoting sustainable tourism and development. One of the park's most significant conservation efforts is its coral reef conservation program, which aims to protect the park's diverse marine ecosystem. The program includes measures to reduce pollution and protect coral reefs from damage caused by human activities, such as overfishing and anchor damage. The park also conducts research and monitoring programs to better understand and manage the health of the park's coral reefs.
In addition to its coral reef conservation program, Kenting National Park has implemented several sustainable development initiatives, including a waste reduction program that encourages visitors to reduce their waste and recycle. The park also promotes sustainable tourism by offering educational programs and activities that promote awareness and appreciation of the park's unique natural and cultural resources.
Moreover, the park also works closely with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote conservation and sustainable development in the park and its surrounding areas. For example, the park collaborates with local fishing communities to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine resources. Overall, Kenting National Park's biodiversity and sustainable development programs demonstrate the park's commitment to balancing conservation and sustainable development while promoting awareness and appreciation of Taiwan's natural and cultural heritage.
Human Activities
Human actions have a direct impact on the problems that Kenting National Park's biodiversity and sustainable development programs aim to address. For instance, pollution and overfishing are significant threats to the park's coral reefs, which support a diverse marine ecosystem. Human activities such as irresponsible waste disposal, discharge of untreated sewage, and excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides can lead to nutrient pollution, which can cause harmful algal blooms that damage coral reefs.
(Photo from : https://peerj.com/articles/11744/)
Unsustainable fishing practices, such as overfishing and the use of destructive fishing methods, can significantly impact marine biodiversity, including fish populations and coral reefs. The park's waste reduction program and sustainable fishing practices initiatives are aimed at encouraging visitors and local communities to adopt more responsible and sustainable practices that minimize the impact of human activities on the park's natural resources. Furthermore, the park's research and monitoring programs are critical in understanding the health of the park's ecosystems and the impact of human activities on them. This knowledge is essential in developing effective conservation strategies and policies that balance conservation and sustainable development in the park and its surrounding areas.
Participation
There are several ways we could participate in Kenting National Park's biodiversity and sustainable development programs:
- Visit the park: Visiting the park and participating in the educational programs and activities offered by the park can help raise awareness and appreciation for the park's natural and cultural resources. By learning about the park's conservation efforts and sustainable development initiatives, we can become more informed and responsible visitors and promote sustainable tourism.
- Volunteer: The park offers volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups interested in supporting its conservation and sustainable development programs. Volunteers can assist with research and monitoring activities, participate in beach cleanups, and help with environmental education programs.
- Support local businesses: Supporting local businesses that operate sustainably and promote responsible tourism practices can help promote sustainable development in the park's surrounding areas. This includes using eco-friendly products, supporting businesses that use renewable energy sources, and purchasing locally sourced products.
- Adopt sustainable practices: We can adopt sustainable practices in our daily lives, such as reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and using environmentally friendly products. By reducing our environmental impact, we can help minimize the negative impact of human activities on the park's natural resources.
- Donate: Donating to the park or supporting conservation organizations working in the area can help fund conservation and sustainable development initiatives. This support can go towards research and monitoring programs, education and outreach efforts, and habitat restoration projects.
By participating in Kenting National Park's biodiversity and sustainable development programs, we can contribute to the conservation and sustainable development efforts of the park and its surrounding areas.
Reference
Green , C. (2019, May 22). Why biodiversity is essential for sustainable development. WHY BIODIVERSITY IS ESSENTIAL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT. Retrieved April 21, 2023, from https://unfoundation.org/blog/post/biodiversity-essential-sustainable-development/
Kenting National Park. (n.d.). Kenting National Park. Retrieved April 21, 2023, from https://www.ktnp.gov.tw/en/Default.aspx
Taiwan Forestry Research Institutetaiwan Forestry Research Institute. Taiwan Forestry Research Institute. (n.d.). Retrieved April 21, 2023, from https://www.tfri.gov.tw/en/
Taiwan Scene. (2021, February 8). A First Timer's Guide to kenting national park. Taiwan Scene. Retrieved April 21, 2023, from https://taiwan-scene.com/a-first-timers-guide-to-kenting-national-park/
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