For centuries, farmers,
herders, fishers and foresters
have developed diverse and
locally adapted agricultural
systems managed with time
tested, ingenious techniques.
These practices have resulted
in a vital combination of
social, cultural, ecological and
economic services to humankind.
“Globally Important Agricultural
Heritage Systems” (GIAHS) are
outstanding landscapes of aesthetic
beauty that combine agricultural
biodiversity, resilient ecosystems
and a valuable cultural heritage.
Located in specific sites around the
world, they sustainably provide
multiple goods and services, food
and livelihood security for millions
of small-scale farmers. This is a brief introduction of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) programme. For centuries, farmers, herders, fishers and foresters have developed diverse and locally adapted agricultural systems managed with time tested, ingenious techniques. These practices have resulted in a vital combination of social, cultural, ecological and economic services to humankind. “Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems” (GIAHS) are outstanding landscapes of aesthetic beauty that combine agricultural biodiversity, resilient ecosystems and a valuable cultural heritage. Located in specific sites around the world, they sustainably provide multiple goods and services, food and livelihood security for millions of small-scale farmers.