Background
Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD) is a registered Ethiopian residents’ civil society organization which has started its work in 1996 focusing on rural farming communities in Tigray and then expanded to rural communities in Arba Minch Zuria (SNNPR), South Wollo of Amhara, and one Woreda in Oromiya. In 1998, it started working with environmental clubs in schools and self-organized out-of-school youth groups in Addis Ababa. By 2010, it was interacting with environmental clubs in 22 schools, at least one from each regional state, and youth groups in Addis Ababa and five other urban areas.
The objectives of ISD are to:
Carry out research to speed up development by bringing together the best in traditional knowledge and modern science.
Promote activities focused on the link between cultural diversity and biodiversity, also called bio-cultural diversity, with the youth to raise the appreciation of indigenous knowledge for sustainable livelihoods and a better future.
Support and organize meetings and exchange visits which promote dialogue and information exchange on issues related to biodiversity, sustainable development and the assertion of the livelihood rights of the poor majority of the South.
Publish books, manuals and other information materials on biodiversity, natural resources, indigenous knowledge and related issues to provide technical information for development for workers and educators at all levels and
Share information through print and electronic media to create awareness among development workers in government and the public at large on issues that promote the sustainable uses
Respect the knowledge, practices and cultures of local communities with regard to natural resources management, and learn from them
Believe in equity and solidarity.
Provide an equal employment opportunity regarding sex, religion.
Political outlook and physical condition.
Respect the laws and regulations of the country.
Use transparency and accountability in all relationships.
Respect each other and work together.
Make effective and efficient use of resources and give high commitment to the organization and its work; and
Believe in and practice comprehensive participation with all stakeholders.
