Human life depends on the earth as much as the ocean for our sustenance and livelihoods. Plant life provides 80 percent of our human diet, and we rely on agriculture as an important economic resource and means of development. Forests account for 30 percent of the Earth’s surface, providing vital habitats for millions of species and important sources for clean air and water; as well as being crucial for combating climate change.
Today we are seeing unprecedented land degradation, and the loss of arable land at 30 to 35 times the historical rate. Drought and desertification is also on the rise each year, amounting to the loss of 12 million hectares and affects poor communities globally. Of the 8,300 animal breeds known, 8 percent are extinct and 22 percent are at risk of extinction.
The SDGs aim to conserve and restore the use of terrestrial ecosystems such as forests, wetlands, drylands and mountains by 2020. Halting deforestation is also vital to mitigating the impact of climate change. Urgent action must be taken to reduce the loss of natural habitats and biodiversity which are part of our common heritage.
Goals in action
Drones for Social Good
How could drones possibly help to fight the impacts of climate change? The lowest lying country in the world, the Maldives, is giving it a shot. MORE >
A Guilt-Free Holiday
Montenegro is attracting ever-growing numbers of tourists. But just like any other tourist destination, this beautiful Western Balkan country can be harmed by booming tourism. That’s why we’re helping Montenegro to go carbon-neutral. MORE >
Removing the obstacles for women farmers
Through the Green Commodities Programme, UNDP is bringing together government, big business and small-scale farmers across 10 countries to address sustainable agricultural practices. The programme helps improve access to resources and ensure equal opportunities for women. MORE >
UNDP in VenezuelaAnother kind of gold mine: Culture
In the place where the Pemón people live, great table-top mountains tower above the rich green valley. In Pemón folklore, these mountains, called “tepui,” are home to the gods. MORE >
UNDP in IndonesiaCultivating change in Papua
The scent of the Celebes pepper hits you before you even reach Ogenetan in the heart of Papua’s Boven Digoel district. Called sereh merah, the plant is used by communities across Papua to drive away evil spirits. MORE >
Learning to restore and protect Azerbaijan's farmlands
With EU funding and UNDP support, the Clima East Pilot Project in Azerbaijan is working to teach and establish sustainable pasture management practices, improve the fertility of pastures and forests and prevent soil erosion and landslides. MORE >
Supporting Mali's women to adapt to climate change
Climate change has led to more drought and shorter rainy seasons in Mali. The government has partnered with UNDP to strengthen agricultural communities and empower women to mitigate the social and economic impacts of climate change. MORE >
Water in Myanmar's Dry Zone
In the Dry Zone, chronic poverty is directly correlated with the effects of drought and climate change. UNDP supports efforts to secure water resources and reduce food insecurity in the most vulnerable townships.. MORE >
Protectors of our planet's lungs
In Peru's Southern Amazon, the indigenous Harakmbut people are fighting against climate change. MORE >
Feeding a family, nourishing a community
1 out of 2 children in Guatemala suffers from malnutrition. A new initiative is working with local farmers to change that. MORE >