On this International Day for Biological Diversity, themed “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development”, we are called to reflect on Egypt’s extraordinary natural heritage; an intricate tapestry of ecosystems, species, and landscapes that have coexisted with our ancestors for millennia. As the cradle of ancient civilization, Egypt’s rich biodiversity is intertwined with our cultural identity, economic vitality, and ecological resilience. Today, more than ever, it demands our collective action to ensure its preservation for future generations.

Egypt is home to a remarkable variety of life. From the lush Nile River and its life-giving waters to the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea and the rugged deserts of Sinai and the Western Desert, our country’s natural heritage is both unique and irreplaceable. About 2.5% of Egypt’s 717 known species of amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles are endemic, found nowhere else in the world. These ecosystems support birds, plants, fish, and wildlife, in addition to our tourism, agriculture, fishing, and—most importantly—our people.

However, despite this natural wealth, nature is under pressure. Egypt faces challenges in conserving its biodiversity. Rapid population growth, urbanization and industrialization are leading to habitat destruction, fragmentation, and pollution. Climate change exacerbates these pressures—extreme weather conditions, changing rainfall patterns, and sea level rise threaten coastal ecosystems and wetlands, risking the loss of critical habitats and biodiversity hotspots.

In confronting these challenges, Egypt’s path to sustainable development must be rooted in environmental stewardship, guided by the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which provides a roadmap to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. This is where the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) plays a vital role. Over the past years, UNDP has collaborated closely with the Ministry of Environment, donors, civil society, and local communities to implement conservation projects aligned with national priorities.

These efforts are the result of a strong and ongoing partnership between the Ministry of Environment, UNDP, the Government of Italy and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Notably, 17% of Egypt’s land is designated as protected areas, including 30 nature reserves such as Ras Mohamed and Wadi El Gemmal National Park. Currently, UNDP is supporting 19 of these protected areas through management plan and upgrading them to become first class eco-touristic sites by providing essential basic services. We have also supported 24,000 families to help in income generating activities in Wadi El Gemmal and Wadi Rayan through handicrafts and beekeeping activities. Together, we are working to translate global biodiversity commitments into practical, locally rooted action. Whether through the development of protected areas, promoting eco-tourism, or enhancing access to sustainable finance, this tripartite collaboration places nature at the center of Egypt’s sustainable development agenda. It also reflects our shared belief that biodiversity is not just a natural asset—but a foundation for prosperity, resilience, and global solidarity.

One of our flagship projects "Conservation and Sustainable Use of Medicinal Plants in Arid and Semi-Arid Ecosystems”, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) involves establishing and managing protected areas such as the Northwestern Coast, Siwa Oasis, and parts of the Red Sea coastline. These areas provide safe habitats for endangered species and serve as ecological corridors that connect diverse habitats. Protecting these regions is not only about conserving biodiversity but also about promoting sustainable tourism, supporting local economies, and strengthening resilience to climate change.

Community engagement forms the backbone of our conservation approach, involving local communities in protecting natural resources fosters both effective and equitable outcomes. By integrating traditional knowledge and practices, we empowered local communities to manage natural resources sustainably, fostering a harmonious relationship between people and nature.Programmes like the Community-Based Natural Resources Management projects with the Italian Cooperation in Fayoum and Wadi El Gemal actively involve local communities, providing them with training and sustainable livelihood opportunities—be it eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, or resource management. When communities become stewards of their natural environment, conservation efforts are more durable and impactful.

Furthermore, Egypt’s national strategy for biodiversity conservation is articulated through the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP). Developed by the Ministry of Environment in collaboration with UNDP, the NBSAP sets out clear goals and priorities to halt biodiversity loss and foster sustainable use of natural resources. It emphasizes mainstreaming biodiversity into sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and urban planning, ensuring that conservation becomes part of the country's development fabric.

Financial sustainability is equally important. That’s why UNDP is spearheading initiatives to develop Biodiversity Finance Plans. Through the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), UNDP supports Egypt in developing comprehensive finance plans that mobilize resources from various sectors, ensuring long-term investment in biodiversity conservation. These include exploring public-private partnerships, green taxes, and international climate and biodiversity funds. By drawing on rigorous data, innovative methodologies, and multi-sectoral input, these plans aim to secure sustainable financing streams that empower Egypt to protect its ecosystems effectively.

Capacity building and policy support are also vital components to safeguarding biodiversity.Training workshops, technical assistance, and policy dialogues strengthen institutional frameworks that can effectively manage protected areas and enforce environmental regulations. Our goal, together with the Government of Egypt, is to integrate biodiversity considerations into all levels of planning and decision-making, ensuring that economic development and conservation are mutually reinforcing.

Public awareness and education campaigns are also central to fostering a culture of conservation in Egypt. Campaigns such as Eco-Egypt, launched through the joint UNDP-Ministry of Environment Project “Mainstreaming Biodiversity into Tourism Development” showcase the country’s natural wonders, encouraging both tourists and locals to appreciate and protect these assets. It is also key that schools and universities incorporate environmental education into curricula, nurturing future generations of conservation advocates. When people understand the value of nature, they become its strongest defenders.

Preserving nature is a global responsibility, but it must start at the local level—with communities, with leadership, and with shared commitment. It is essential for achieving the SDGs, particularly Goals 13 (climate action), 14 (life below water), and 15 (life on land), and for ensuring long-term economic resilience. Our natural heritage sustains our ecosystems, supports economic growth, and enriches our cultural identity. Protecting it requires collective action — from policymakers and communities to individuals.

Today, on this global celebration, let us reaffirm our commitment to a future where Egypt’s rich biodiversity continues to thrive, as a vital part of our national identity and sustainable development journey. Because, ultimately, living in harmony with nature is about securing our future, for ourselves and generations yet to come.