Aims to Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.
A flourishing life on land is the foundation for our life on this planet. We are all part of the planet’s ecosystem and we have caused severe damage to it through deforestation, loss of natural habitats and land degradation. Promoting a sustainable use of our ecosystems and preserving biodiversity is not a cause. It is the key to our own survival.
Al-Quds University is committed to protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably managing forests, combating desertification, and halting and reversing land degradation and biodiversity loss. The university contributes to SDG 15 through various means:
Education in Environmental Sciences, Biology, and Sustainable Development: Al-Quds University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in environmental sciences, biology, and sustainable development, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and address terrestrial ecosystem conservation and sustainability challenges. These programs focus on topics such as biodiversity conservation, sustainable land management, and habitat restoration, preparing students for careers in various sectors.
Research on Terrestrial Ecosystems and Conservation: The university conducts research on issues related to terrestrial ecosystems and conservation, including studies on biodiversity, habitat restoration, land degradation, and sustainable land management practices. This research helps advance the understanding of terrestrial ecosystems and their conservation, providing valuable insights for evidence-based policies and strategies.
Collaboration with Local and Global Stakeholders: Al-Quds University works with organizations to address terrestrial ecosystem conservation and sustainability challenges. Through joint research projects, workshops, and knowledge sharing, the university provides technical assistance and support to help these stakeholders develop and implement terrestrial ecosystem conservation and sustainability solutions.
Community Outreach and Capacity Building: Al-Quds University actively engages in community outreach programs that promote awareness about terrestrial ecosystem conservation and sustainability. These initiatives involve providing education and training to local communities on topics such as biodiversity conservation, sustainable land management, and habitat restoration, empowering them to take action and contribute to the protection and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
Advocacy and Policy Development: Al-Quds University plays a key role in advocating for policies and strategies that promote terrestrial ecosystem conservation and sustainability at local, national, and international levels.
Promoting Sustainable Practices on Campus: The university is committed to promoting sustainable practices on campus that contribute to terrestrial ecosystem conservation, such as implementing green infrastructure, reducing waste, and conserving water and energy resources. These efforts help raise awareness about the importance of terrestrial ecosystem conservation and inspire students, faculty, and staff to adopt more sustainable lifestyles.
Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Ecosystem Conservation: The university supports the development and commercialization of innovative technologies, products, and services that can contribute to terrestrial ecosystem conservation and sustainable land management. This includes providing resources and support to researchers, entrepreneurs, and start-ups, such as incubators, accelerators, and funding opportunities, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in ecosystem conservation.
Some of the university targets and contributions are:
- The university adopts a lot of research and studies on the development of natural resources and their optimal use, vital systems and life on earth.
- The campus environment includes vegetation and forest areas to increase the vegetation cover in Palestine.
- Credit hour programs with specializations in university faculties related to vital systems and life on Earth.
- Ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services inside the university’s community.
- Combat desertification, restore degraded lands and soils in the university campus and any lands under its dominance.
- Mobilize and significantly increase financial resources from all sources in the university to conserve and sustainably use biodiversity and ecosystems.
In summary, Al-Quds University is dedicated to achieving SDG 15 through a comprehensive approach that includes education, research, collaboration with local and global stakeholders, community outreach and capacity building, advocacy and policy development, promoting sustainable practices on campus, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in ecosystem conservation. By protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, the university plays a vital role in fostering environmental sustainability, social equity, and overall well-being.