An Unexpected Climate Solution on the Grasslands of Azerbaijan #nowforclimate

Why It Matters

Reintroducing bison strengthens ecosystem balance and grassland resilience, delivering tangible benefits for climate mitigation, adaptation and biodiversity recovery. Restored herbivore populations can enhance long-term landscape health and reduce vulnerability to climate impacts.

Summary

Conservationists in Azerbaijan have released another 20 European bison into the wild, bringing the Caucasus population to nearly 100 after decades of near-extinction. The animals—about 60 of which were donated from European zoos—are being reintroduced in Ismayilli as part of a broader effort to restore bison across the region. Advocates say the bison act as "ecosystem engineers," spreading seeds, altering soils and vegetation patterns, and helping grasslands recover. The latest releases were announced on World Environment Day as a milestone in regional restoration efforts.