The Fondation d'entreprise Hermès is furthering its commitment to the support of local skills and biodiversity, with a call for expert research projects and field initiatives. The scheme will support innovative approaches to the interface between local producers and consumers.
Human activity has a significant, largely negative, impact on biodiversity, despite its fundamental importance as a source of natural riches, vital planetary functions, and spiritual and artistic inspiration. The balance of power is unequal.
As part of its mandate to promote biodiversity and local skills, the Fondation d'entreprise Hermès is focusing on how the knowledge and expertise involved in local agriculture can help preserve and maintain biodiversity. Viable economic development is the key to safeguarding this knowledge. It is vital that we raise the profile of sustainably-sourced produce based on traditional expertise. Faced with a multitude of over-industrialised foodstuffs, proper recognition of the value of sustainable local produce is more important than ever.
On May 16, 2011, two projects will receive funding of 100K € each, supporting research into the links between local development, the economy and biodiversity. Over a two-year period, the teams involved will identify the structures and key players working to forge links between local producers and consumers, and a new approach to the relationship between mankind and our home planet.
Urgent research and action are needed to identify effective practices and share local knowledge. The Foundation is working with IDDRI, our scientific partner, to promote a long-term and a sustainable approach.
For further information, please contact clement.leduc@hermes.com
