Introduction
Introduction to the biodiversity credit methodology
The Savimbo Indicator Species Biodiversity Methodology (ISBM) provides a simplified framework that protects resilient ecosystems. Central to the methodology is direct payment to Indigenous Peoples (IP) and local communities (LC), who are the on-the-ground land guardians.
The methodology outlined in this paper may seem overly simplified to those accustomed to Western ways of thinking about science and measurement. But the aim of our methodology is to implement a solution now. Furthermore, its simplicity is backed by current understandings of complexity theory, ecological science, and Indigenous knowledge. Most importantly, it offers an immediate and scalable response to the urgent problem of biodiversity loss. Immediate action is key. Once a species is extinct, it can never be restored. Disrupted ecosystems take generations to restore. Therefore, this methodology prioritizes immediate action over all else. As earth systems science progresses, we expect to update the methodology.
The biosphere isn’t valuable because of its economic value. It’s valuable because, without it, there is no life on Earth.
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