BANGKOK (TDI): China, for the first time, is hosting the High-Level Training and Experience Sharing on Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS).
The event is co-organized by the Center for International Cooperation Services (CICOS) and FAO’s GIAHS Programme under the FAO-China South-South Cooperation Programme.
Representatives from 20 countries are attending the event, currently underway in Huzhou and Xianju, Zhejiang Province from November 4 to 10.
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This meeting focuses on how traditional agricultural practices can align with modern technologies. It will showcase sustainable models for biodiversity conservation, food security, and climate resilience.
The event includes field visits to two significant heritage sites in Zhejiang: the Huzhou Mulberry-Dyke and Fish-Pond System and the Xianju Waxberry Composite System. Both illustrate sustainable farming techniques that balance food production with environmental preservation.
This training is an opportunity for GIAHS members to observe sustainable practices and explore ways to use traditional methods to address modern agricultural challenges.
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Asia and the Pacific region leads in GIAHS sites, with 58 designated systems across nine countries and one territory.
China has been a leading GIAHS participant since 2005. Its South-South Cooperation Programme promotes GIAHS preservation. With 22 sites, China has the highest number in the region.
Globally, there are 89 GIAHS sites across 28 countries. According to Piedad Martín of FAO’s Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Environment, these sites strengthen resilience and food security.
