Intensive urbanization from year to year reduces natural ecosystems that play a huge balancing ecological role on the planet. Preservation of natural ecosystems bordering on cultivated ones requires the development of new approaches to mutually beneficial sustainable development. Great potential lies in the preservation of unique ecosystems with wild fruit-bearing plantations. In this article, using the example of the natural ecosystems of the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, included in the list of Ramsar Convention on the Conservation of Wetlands, the possibility of using natural thickets of sea buckthorn to improve the socio-economic situation of the local population and preserve unique but endangered natural ecosystems is analyzed. Studies have shown that sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) fruits do not accumulate heavy metals and contain an increased content of ascorbic acid. A survey of the local population showed that local residents do not consider the use of sea buckthorn plantations as a potential source of income, but recognize it as the most environmentally friendly. In order to develop the mutually beneficial development of the local population and natural ecosystems, it is necessary: to use wild-growing fruit-bearing shrubs with the maximum benefit from the annual harvest, among which the sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) has a potential; to develop recommendations and modern technologies for the production of a wide range of products, using all possible parts of sea buckthorn; educate local people on the importance of preserving natural ecosystems and involve local businessmen in preserving vulnerable ecosystems.