ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Indigenous and community conserved area

Indigenous and Community Conserved Areas (ICCAs) are special lands that are conserved by indigenous people and local communities who have lived on and worked on these lands for many generations. These areas are very important because they are often home to many different kinds of plants, animals, and insects that may not be found anywhere else in the world.

Think of it like a very special playground in your neighborhood that you and your friends always play in. But instead of just playing, you and your friends have decided to keep the playground clean and tidy so that everyone can enjoy it. This is kind of what indigenous and local communities do - they make sure that the land is well taken care of so that it stays healthy, and they do this not just for themselves, but for the animals and plants that live there too.

Sometimes, these areas even have special rules and customs that the people who live there follow. For example, they might not allow hunting or fishing in certain parts of the area during certain times of the year. This helps to make sure that the animals have enough time and space to reproduce and thrive.

These ICCAs are very important for the people who live there because they provide them with food, shelter, and medicines. For example, some plants found in these areas might be used to make remedies for ailments or illnesses. By protecting these areas, indigenous and local communities are making sure they can continue to rely on these resources for years to come.