The United Nations has officially named 2026 the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists to raise awareness about the importance of grasslands, savannahs, and pastoral communities that sustain nearly one billion people worldwide. This campaign aims to spotlight their role in ecosystem health, cultural heritage, and climate adaptation.
- Rangelands cover approximately 54% of Earth’s land surface
- Pastoralists manage around one billion grazing animals globally
- Traditional grazing practices enhance biodiversity and soil health
What happened
In 2026, the United Nations declared an International Year dedicated to rangelands and pastoralists—ecosystems and communities that cover more than half of the Earth’s land surface and support nearly a billion people. This declaration, led by the Food and Agriculture Organization, aims to bring global attention to the ecological and cultural importance of grasslands, savannahs, and other open landscapes.
The campaign highlights the vital role pastoralists play in managing livestock such as cattle, sheep, camels, and reindeer, and emphasizes their stewardship in maintaining biodiversity, regulating water cycles, and combating climate change. It also responds to threats these environments face from development, land degradation, and barriers to traditional migratory grazing.
Why it feels good
Acknowledging the value of rangelands and pastoralist communities renews appreciation for land management methods developed over centuries. These traditional ecological knowledges include understanding drought cycles, animal behavior, and grazing patterns that help ecosystems thrive even in challenging environments.
By recognizing rangelands’ role in carbon storage and climate resilience, this initiative promotes hope for nature-based solutions to climate change. It also challenges outdated views of these landscapes as 'empty' or 'unused,' instead celebrating them as vibrant ecosystems crucial for the planet’s wellbeing and the livelihoods of millions.
What to enjoy or watch next
Take time to explore stories and documentaries about pastoralist cultures around the world—from the Mongolian steppes to African savannahs—which showcase how these communities maintain rich cultural heritage alongside sustainable land stewardship. Understanding their way of life offers insights into balancing human needs with nature’s health.
Keep an eye on emerging research and conservation projects inspired by the International Year, many of which focus on protecting migration routes and promoting policies that support pastoral mobility. These efforts hold promise for enhancing biodiversity, improving soil health, and strengthening climate adaptation strategies worldwide.