Botanic gardens for the future: Integrating research, conservation, environmental education and public recreation

Abstract

Based on centuries of historical development, botanic gardens have now developed into leading institutions in the fields of conservation, research, education and recreation on a global scale. Botanic gardens increasingly play a role in providing a scientific basis towards sustainable use and conservation of plant diversity. Due to a rising public awareness on biodiversity, they become important windows to the public. Gullele Botanic Garden is predestined to make an impact as a model institution for the Horn of Africa and beyond, building upon achievements already made through programs such as the Ethiopian Flora Project and using an excellent location in Addis Ababa as one of the major cities of the African continent. Making an impact in the area of plant biodiversity appears to be achieved best as a concerted action of administrative and scientific stakeholders. Becoming a nucleus in a future Ethiopian Botanic Gardens Network, Gullele Botanic Garden should have the potential to significantly contribute to conservation and sustainable development, as well as enriching the cultural landscape in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa.