Environment and Energy

Poverty and biodiversity are intimately linked. The poor, especially in rural areas, depend on biodiversity for food, fuel, shelter, medicines and livelihoods. Biodiversity also provides the critical 'ecosystem services' on which development depends, including air and water purification, soil conservation, disease control, and reduced vulnerability to natural disasters such as floods, droughts and landslides. Biodiversity loss exacerbates poverty, and likewise, poverty is a major threat to biodiversity.

Thus, UNDP has made Biodiversity for Development a prime focus of its Energy and Environment Practice. Through capacity development, knowledge management, policy advice and advocacy, UNDP helps more than 140 countries maintain and sustainably use biodiversity. Closely integrated activities, including its Biodiversity Global Programme, the Equator Initiative, the Global Environment Facility (GEF), and the GEF Small Grants Programme enable UNDP to leverage change at the local, national, regional and global levels. More...