Hunters as the Eyes and Ears of One Health: CIC at the World Science Forum
Budapest, Hungary, 20 November 2024 – The World Science Forum convened leaders in science, public health, and environmental sectors for a pivotal side event titled “Catalysing the Creation of a World Network of One Sustainable Health Institutes.” Organised by the One Sustainable Health for All Foundation in collaboration with the One Europe for Global Health Coalition and the Hungarian Research Network (HUN-REN), the event brought together multidisciplinary stakeholders to explore innovative solutions for global health challenges.
Representing the environmental perspective, Thomas Paulic, Programme Officer for the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC), highlighted the indispensable role of hunters, herders, and local communities within the One Health framework. He illustrated how the CIC bridges traditional expertise and emerging technologies to contribute to health, biodiversity, and food security goals.
Advancing One Health Through Collaboration
The One Health concept emphasizes the interconnection of human, animal, and environmental health. Discussions at the forum revolved around actionable solutions to build a resilient future. Key themes included:
- Scientific Translation: Ensuring that research findings are effectively translated into accessible, real-world solutions.
- Cancer Prevention: Addressing pollution and environmental inequalities as drivers of health disparities.
- Artificial Intelligence: Using AI to enhance antimicrobial resistance monitoring and enable global scientific collaboration.
These discussions underscored the importance of collaboration across disciplines to create integrated approaches to global health challenges.
Highlighting the Role of Environmental Actors
Paulic’s presentation brought attention to the often-overlooked role of hunters and conservationists as frontline actors in detecting environmental and wildlife health changes. Their traditional knowledge and local observations are invaluable for early warning systems and sustainable resource management.
Key areas presented by CIC included:
Flying Vets Mongolia: A One Health Pilot Project
This initiative empowers hunters and herders in Mongolia to respond to wildlife health risks, such as peste des petits ruminants (PPR) and avian influenza. By safeguarding iconic species like the Argali sheep and Saiga antelope, the project protects biodiversity and sustains the livelihoods of nomadic communities.
Technology Integration
The CIC demonstrated how emerging technologies amplify the effectiveness of local efforts:
- Portable PCR Diagnostics enable real-time disease testing in remote regions.
- Natlink Digital Platform, with tools like WeHunt, supports hunters in monitoring wildlife health and environmental trends through data sharing and tracking technologies.
These innovations create scalable solutions that turn local expertise into global insights, enhancing ecosystem and public health monitoring.
Food Security Through Sustainable Game Meat Programs
Wild game meat represents a sustainable resource that addresses food insecurity while aligning with conservation priorities. CIC highlighted how responsibly managed wild game programs:
- Provide nutritional benefits to communities.
- Support conservation by ensuring the sustainable use of wildlife populations.
A Platform for Global Cooperation
The One Sustainable Health for All Foundation offers a dynamic platform for international collaboration, uniting leaders from science, policy, and industry. CIC, a partner since October 2024, brings a vital environmental perspective to this mission.
These organisations reaffirm their commitment to advancing a One Health approach that integrates sustainable use, biodiversity conservation, and innovative solutions. CIC fosters partnerships across sectors and borders and contributes to a shared vision of thriving ecosystems, healthy wildlife, and prosperous communities.
Media Contacts:
Tristan Breijer
Senior Communications and Public Affairs Advisor
CIC – International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation
Email: tristan.breijer@cic-wildlife.org
