Ramesh Boonratana PhD, Primatologist

Letter of support from Ramesh Boonratana PhD, Primatologist

16 November 2023

Dear Dr. Burbank,

Re: Biodiversity Credit Methodology

First and foremost – kudos! As a long-time biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection practitioner and a strong advocate for IPLC stewardship, I am writing to support the methodology designed to protect biodiversity, specifically tailored to empower IPLC involved in grassroots conservation. I highly endorse the initiative, whose approach is aimed at simplicity, rapid deployment, and direct market access for those pivotal in preserving Earth's biodiversity.

The significance of Indigenous stewardship in conserving the world's biodiversity cannot be overstated. This methodology benefits the ecosystems and those who directly safeguard these invaluable ecosystems. Of significance is the issuance of voluntary biodiversity credits (VBCs), which explicitly disallow any form of offseƫng. It further forgoes complex scientific quantification methods, ensuring direct and immediate action without compromising the autonomy and integrity of IPLC communities.

By economically incentivizing positive models within IPLC communities, this methodology not only preserves biodiversity but also reinforces traditional ways of life and knowledge preservation, respecting and empowering those whose impact on conservation is unparalleled. This methodology represents a crucial step toward preserving invaluable ecosystems and their intertwined cultures.

I support this visionary approach and am eager to witness its profound and positive impact on biodiversity conservation and the empowerment of IPLC communities globally.

Yours sincerely,

Ramesh Boonratana, Ph.D.

Assoc. Prof. Conservation Biology Regional Vice-Chair for Southeast Asia, IUCN SSC Primate Specialist Group Editor-in-Chief, Asian Primates Journal Review Editor, Frontiers in Animal Conservation Member, IUCN World Commissions on Protected Areas Member, IUCN WCPA Tourism and Protected Areas Specialist Group

Original letter of support from Ramesh Boonratana PhD, Primatologist