Biodiversity Policy for the Campus of the University of Tunis El Manar
Introduction
The University of Tunis El Manar (UTM) reaffirms its commitment to biodiversity by integrating the conservation of rare and endangered species, in alignment with the recommendations of the European Union (EU) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This policy aims to preserve local terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems while fostering national and international collaborations to protect vulnerable species, with a particular focus on aquatic species and sustainable fishing practices.
Objectives
- Preserve rare and endangered species identified in local ecosystems.
- Restore habitats to support the reproduction and survival of endangered species.
- Raise awareness within the university community about the issues related to red-listed species.
- Strengthen international collaborations for effective conservation.
- Protect aquatic species and support sustainable fishing practices to ensure the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Guiding Principles
Identification and Monitoring of Threatened Species
- Conduct studies to identify rare and endangered species present on campus and in surrounding ecosystems, including aquatic species.
- Implement regular monitoring of populations and threats to these species, with a focus on freshwater and marine species in local water bodies.
Protection and Restoration of Critical Habitats
- Restore terrestrial and aquatic habitats for threatened species by integrating sustainable practices such as permaculture.
- Establish protected areas on campus and in local aquatic environments to foster natural regeneration and maintain biodiversity.
Compliance with EU Recommendations and IUCN Red Lists
- Follow EU guidelines for the conservation of endangered species, particularly those listed on the IUCN Red List.
- Collaborate with local authorities to align national policies with EU recommendations, especially in relation to aquatic species protection.
Sustainable Management of Aquatic Species and Fishing
- Identify and protect threatened aquatic species in local freshwater and marine ecosystems, including fish species that are vulnerable to overfishing or habitat loss.
- Promote sustainable fishing practices that minimize the impact on aquatic biodiversity, ensuring the protection of endangered species and the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.
- Educate the community on the importance of sustainable fishing and the threats posed by overfishing and habitat degradation.
Awareness and Community Engagement
- Integrate the conservation of endangered species, including aquatic species, into university curricula.
- Organize awareness campaigns focusing on biodiversity loss, with an emphasis on aquatic ecosystems and sustainable fishing practices.
Collaboration with International Initiatives
- Collaborate with the IUCN, European networks, and NGOs to share data and best practices for aquatic species conservation.
- Contribute actively to regional and international programs aimed at protecting aquatic species and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Management of Invasive Species
- Monitor and control invasive species that threaten local aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity.
- Restore degraded ecosystems to support the recovery of native species, both on land and in water.
Implementation
- Monitoring and Evaluation: Key indicators will be defined to measure progress in protecting both terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity.
- Partnerships: Strengthen collaborations with organizations such as IUCN, fisheries management bodies, and international conservation programs.
- Community Engagement: Involve the university community, including students, staff, and local stakeholders, in aquatic species protection and sustainable fishing initiatives.
This policy represents a key step in UTM’s vision to protect and restore biodiversity, with particular emphasis on aquatic species and sustainable practices, as part of its broader commitment to a sustainable future.