Experiences with capacity building for ecological restoration in Latin America

Background

Landscape scale restoration initiatives are experiencing an increasing popularity, specifically in Latin America. Yet, these initiatives not only require an ecological understanding but also a holistic focus on the socio-economic. To do so, it is critical to promote capacity building in conjunction with these initiatives. Capacity building both improves the technical skills of stakeholders while also increasing the institutional capacity and leadership of all parties. This paper highlights six organizations who are successfully strengthening capacity for ecological restoration in Latin America. 

Conclusions & Takeaways

Overall, each organization has a unique but effective approach to building capacity for ecological restoration. The review found that the approaches usually included classroom components, hands-on activities, visit to demonstration sites, distributed materials, and a curriculum based on applied science. The authors conclude by drawing out four lessons learned from the organizations, including: (I) trainings should be based on applied science and practical experiences (II) integrated management requires interdisciplinary and intersectional work (III) programs should be participator and local-centrique and (IIII) empowering leaders, restoration advocates and community groups is critical.