| Overall Rating | Bronze |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 41.18 |
| Liaison | Mira Dzhakshylykova |
| Submission Date | July 19, 2024 |
American University of Central Asia
OP-10: Biodiversity
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
2.00 / 2.00 |
Mira
Dzhakshylykova Sustainability Coordinator Center for Civic Engagement |
Does the institution own or manage land that includes or is adjacent to legally protected areas, internationally recognized areas, priority sites for biodiversity, or regions of conservation importance?:
A brief description of the legally protected areas, internationally recognized areas, priority sites for biodiversity, and/or regions of conservation importance:
The "EcoParc" project represents a significant conservation effort aimed at protecting and rehabilitating the Elm Grove of Bishkek, a key area of environmental importance in Central Asia. The Elm Grove, established in 1881 by horticulturist Alexei Fetisov and students of the Agrarian Institute, is the largest and oldest urban forest in the region. It serves as a vital biotic pump, contributing to air purification and creating a microclimate for Bishkek.
Despite its historical and ecological significance, the Elm Grove has faced severe degradation due to illegal logging, construction, and grazing, reducing its size from 216 hectares to 123 hectares. The EcoParc project, a collaboration between the French-Kyrgyz Ecotourism Association (AFKE), AUCA, and the City Hall of Bishkek, aims to rehabilitate 41.1 hectares of this area. Since its inception, the project has protected approximately 10,000 trees and planted around 5,000 new ones. In 2015, it received COP21 certification from the French Ministry of the Environment for its efforts in climate change mitigation and civic engagement.
The EcoParc is also a priority site for biodiversity conservation, hosting endangered species such as the Niedzwetzky's apple tree (Malus niedzwetzkyana), which is listed as Endangered under IUCN criteria B2ab(iii,v). The project includes ongoing re-evaluation of tree species and their conservation status in Kyrgyzstan's Red Book, addressing the high mortality rates among these endangered species. Additionally, the EcoParc supports various environmental protection activities, student courses, and research work, further enhancing its role in regional conservation efforts.
Endangered and vulnerable species
A list of endangered and vulnerable species with habitats on land owned or managed by the institution, by level of extinction risk:
Areas of biodiversity importance
A brief description of areas of biodiversity importance on land owned or managed by the institution:
AUCA manages several areas of significant biodiversity importance, notably within the EcoParc project area. The EcoParc, situated in the Elm Grove of Bishkek, is a key biodiversity hotspot. As the largest and oldest urban forest in Central Asia, it plays a crucial role in regional ecological balance. The park is home to a variety of plant species, including the endangered Niedzwetzky's Apple Tree (Malus niedzwetzkyana) and other significant flora.
The EcoParc supports diverse habitats and provides crucial resources for local wildlife, contributing to the preservation of species such as the Asian Mountain Pine (Pinus sibirica) and potentially the Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) and Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug), which are present in surrounding areas. This urban forest not only enhances local biodiversity but also serves as an educational and research site for students and conservationists, reinforcing its importance as a living laboratory for ecological studies and environmental stewardship.
Methodologies
If yes to either of the above, provide the following:
AUCA employs a comprehensive approach to identify and monitor endangered and vulnerable species, as well as areas of biodiversity importance. The process begins with detailed field surveys and inventories, which systematically assess plant and animal species on the institution’s managed lands. These surveys are crucial for cataloging species presence, distribution, and abundance. To keep track of the health and dynamics of these species, ongoing monitoring programs are in place, focusing on both known endangered species, such as Niedzwetzky's Apple Tree (Malus niedzwetzkyana), and their habitats.
The institution collaborates with local and international conservation experts, including partners like the French-Kyrgyz Ecotourism Association (AFKE), to leverage specialized knowledge in species identification and conservation strategies. Additionally, AUCA utilizes conservation databases, such as the IUCN Red List, to validate species at risk and understand their conservation statuses. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies are also employed to analyze land use patterns, habitat changes, and biodiversity hotspots, providing essential insights for mapping and monitoring conservation areas.
Public and community involvement is another key component, with local residents and citizen scientists encouraged to report sightings and changes in biodiversity. This community engagement helps gather valuable data and enhances support for conservation efforts. Finally, AUCA conducts regular re-evaluations of species listed in Kyrgyzstan’s Red Book and other conservation lists, assessing population trends, habitat conditions, and threats to adjust conservation strategies accordingly. This multifaceted approach ensures effective identification and management of endangered species and areas of high biodiversity value.
A brief description of the scope of the assessment(s):
The scope of AUCA’s assessments of biodiversity and endangered species is comprehensive, encompassing both flora and fauna across all managed lands. These assessments involve detailed field surveys to catalog species diversity, distribution, and abundance. The evaluations include the examination of key habitats, particularly focusing on areas of high ecological value such as the EcoPark, which is home to significant and vulnerable species like the Niedzwetzky’s Apple Tree.
Assessments are conducted through a combination of direct observation, ecological sampling, and the use of modern technologies like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing. The process also incorporates analysis of historical data, current land use patterns, and ongoing environmental changes. The scope extends to evaluating conservation needs, tracking population trends, and identifying threats such as habitat destruction or invasive species.
Regular monitoring is integral to these assessments, ensuring that data remains current and relevant. This involves periodic re-evaluations and updates to conservation strategies based on the latest findings. The comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of biodiversity are considered, allowing for effective management and conservation planning.
A brief description of the plans or programs in place to protect or positively affect identified species, habitats, and/or ecosystems:
AUCA has implemented several plans and programs to protect and positively affect identified species, habitats, and ecosystems. The EcoPark initiative is a central component, focusing on the rehabilitation of the Elm Grove of Bishkek, a vital urban forest. This project involves protecting existing trees, planting new ones, and restoring the forest's ecological functions to combat habitat degradation and support local biodiversity.
Additionally, AUCA is actively involved in conservation efforts through ongoing monitoring and research. This includes tracking the health of endangered species like the Niedzwetzky’s Apple Tree and assessing the impact of conservation actions. The university conducts educational programs and workshops to raise awareness about local biodiversity and foster community engagement in conservation efforts.
The institution also collaborates with national and international partners to enhance its conservation impact. These partnerships facilitate knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and joint initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable species and ecosystems. Through these efforts, AUCA aims to maintain and restore ecological balance, support species recovery, and promote sustainable land management practices.
Optional Fields
Website URL where information about the institution’s biodiversity initiatives is available:
Additional documentation to support the submission:
Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.