Traditional knowledge and innovation in GIAHS

In this workshop, we explored the role of innovation in supporting traditional practices that conserve agricultural heritage systems.  

Traditional agricultural practices, often rooted in the local communities and the knowledge of Indigenous peoples, shape landscapes, maintain biodiversity, contribute to food security, and support the livelihoods of both Indigenous and local communities.

In Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS), traditional knowledge is integral to cultural practices and resource management. However, much of this knowledge remains undocumented and only partially analyzed. Sharing and discussing it among stakeholders and experts can enhance its effective use.  

To address evolving social, economic, and environmental challenges, integrating indigenous people knowledge, innovative approaches and modern technologies with traditional knowledge can strengthen GIAHS sites, benefiting both farmers and conservation efforts.  

This workshop is part of a series on GIAHS and Family Farming, funded by Japan's project "Support through GIAHS Programme the International Activities for Sustainable Family Farming." It aimed to gather, analyze, and share outstanding initiatives and best practices among family farmers in GIAHS sites. 

- Session 1: Presentations on the characteristics of traditional knowledge and its application.  

- Session 2: Panel discussion addressing key questions, such as:  

  - What support do family farmers need to effectively use traditional knowledge and practices?  

  - Can traditional knowledge be strengthened by integrating innovative practices and modern technologies? If so, how? 

Panelists from: 

Bangladesh: Floating Garden Agricultural Practices 

Brazil: Traditional Agricultural System in the Southern Espinhaço Range, Minas Gerais  

Japan: Nishi-Awa Steep Slope Land Agriculture System 

Italy: Olive Groves of the Slopes between Assisi and Spoleto

Morrocco: Argan-based agro-sylvo-pastoral system within the area of Ait Souab - Ait Mansour 

Philippines: Ifugao Rice Terraces 

Spain: Malaga Raisin Production System in La Axarquía

**FAO units participating: Agroecology, Indigenous Peoples, Mountain Partnership, Innovation and Nutrition. 

Highlights