ENG - UN CC:Learn

Onsong
R
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
KOREA, DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF
Raising Awareness and Protecting Biodiversity 1
SPOTLIGHT
The globally significant biodiversity of Mount Myohyang, with its exceptionally
high diversity of species, including many threatened and/or endemic species, and
wide altitudinal variation in forest-types, is threatened by the encroachment of
surrounding farmland. The mountain is of great significance to the people of the
DPRK and the preservation of its natural beauty is very important. However, as the
Nampo
CHINA
Yellow Sea
Hamhung
Musan
Hoeryong
DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE’S
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Pyongyang
SOUTH
KOREA
Chongjin
Sea of Japan
notion of biodiversity conservation is new to most people who manage and visit the area, resources have not been fully targeted
to most effectively conserve biodiversity in the area. However, the country is now committed to improving biodiversity conservation
practices.
In 2000, with GEF support and working with UNDP, the Government launched a project to protect the biodiversity of Mt.
Myohyang. The project initiated a protected area management scheme focused on biodiversity conservation. An important
aspect of the project was developing information systems, hence over 10 wildlife surveys were conducted to gather information,
an environmental resources database was established, a ‘Guidebook on Plants in Myohyang’ was published, a threat analysis
was completed, and the first maps were produced. The project also strengthened institutional and management capacity
by reviewing and assisting management and technical procedures, as well as training on bird identification and mammal surveys.
In addition, the project provided education on biodiversity and economic alternatives through strategic outreach plans,
and drafted interpretative materials such as signboards and booklets to raise awareness among tourists and local communities
of the importance of Mt. Myohyang biodiversity conservation.
By enabling management practices based on sound biological principles, developing alternatives to non-sustainable use of
resources, and providing education and outreach, this project was successful in increasing habitat range, reducing pressure on
biodiversity and increasing understanding of suitable conservation measures. As a result of the project the Mt. Myohyang protected
area has achieved IUCN National Park status.
BIODIVERSITY
QUICK FACTS
CURRENT PORTFOLIO BUDGET
Total UNDP-GEF and Co-Finance: $4,209,123
Total UNDP and Co-Finance: $2,717,691
Total: $6,926,742
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