IUCN’s Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group (SULi) is a global expert network formed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as a joint initiative of its Species Survival Commission (SSC) and its Commission on Environmental, Economic and Social Policy (CEESP).
Bridging the social and biological science strengths of SSC and CEESP, SULi is uniquely placed to provide credible, sound technical advice on sustainable use and livelihoods. SULi includes almost 300 experts from the intergovernmental, government, academic, private and NGO sectors, who bring a diverse array of relevant expertise: from technical management of forestry, fisheries, medicinal plants and wildlife, to traditional knowledge, community based natural resource management, and rural development.
It operates in a manner inclusive of diverse opinions, encouraging debate based on evidence, and seeking to develop and provide knowledge-based and objective positions and advice. SULi is led by a Chair appointed by the Commission Chairs, Deputy Chairs for regions in which active groups focusing on regional issues have been formed, and a Steering Committee. Its mission is to promote both conservation and livelihoods through enhancing equitable and sustainable use of wild species and their associated ecosystems.
Understanding the importance of wild meat is a global concern since the non-commercial harvest of fish and wildlife remain crucial to the diets, economies, cultures, and livelihoods of many people around the world. However, quantifying the significance of this food has seldom been attempted at a national scale. Final results of the Wild Harvest Initiative® may be referenced by future policy makers and effect decision-making, particularly with regard to land management and wildlife production and conservation. Results will also underscore the success of wildlife management models that incorporate sustainable harvest practices, including the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation and also those models practiced by Indigenous Peoples. Furthermore, the Wild Harvest Initiative® will provide common ground for discussions and public engagement about food security and the modern relevance of hunting and angling, while increasing public awareness of the importance of wildlife habitat.
