Abstract ID: 3.17963 | Accepted as Poster | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA

The Central Himalayan Region (CHR) of Uttarakhand, India, is a repository of rich biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and unique cultural heritage. However, the region faces critical challenges due to climate change, unsustainable development practices, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. This research explores the integration of climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods through an ecosystem-based approach that prioritizes local engagement and resources, encapsulated in the mantra “Vocal for Local.” Using participatory action research (PAR) methodologies, this study identifies the critical intersections between ecological health, climate adaptation, and livelihood security. Community-driven initiatives such as agroforestry, sustainable agriculture, ecotourism, and renewable energy solutions were implemented and evaluated over a three-year period (2020–2023). The findings demonstrate that combining traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) with modern sustainable practices significantly enhances adaptive capacity while ensuring economic viability. Strategies such as promoting indigenous crop varieties, revitalizing local water conservation systems, and establishing women-led microenterprises emerged as effective pathways for resilience. The study underscores the importance of ecosystem services in sustaining livelihoods and mitigating climate impacts, highlighting the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental systems. Policy recommendations emphasize the need for decentralized governance, capacity building, and financial mechanisms that empower local communities. This integrated model of climate resilience and sustainable development provides actionable insights for scaling up region-specific interventions in other mountain ecosystems. Objectives • To assess the vulnerabilities of local communities to climate change. • To promote sustainable livelihoods through community-driven initiatives. • To enhance ecosystem resilience by integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific practices. • To evaluate the role of local economies and “Vocal for Local” in achieving sustainable development.