IUCN facilitates and coordinates on-the-ground learning around the world to identify the most effective solutions for improving human well-being. Working with its Commissions, Members and partner organizations, IUCN’s projects improve the management of natural areas such as forests, rivers, mangroves and coral reefs so that they can continue to provide the goods and services on which livelihoods depend. The lessons emerging from these activities are shared through the global network and used to guide policy at local, national and global levels.
The following section provides a few examples; more information can be found by visiting the IUCN Programme or Region section that is of interest to you.
Action
Examples of our work
Water for human well-being
Water sustains all life on earth. People need access to safe, reliable and renewable water supplies for health, agriculture and economic security. Floods and drought, often due to poor ecosystem management, can have devastating effects. In a fast changing world, integrated and fair water use and distribution is vital if we are to achieve sustainable development and reduce poverty. The IUCN Water and Nature Initiative (WANI) works across five continents in 12 river basins to help governments and local communities to use and manage water resources for sustainably livelihoods. Learn more
Forests and livelihoods
Forests provide products such as timber and food, and services such as water catchment and soil stabilization. In landscapes across 23 countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America, IUCN is working with multiple stakeholders to enhance long term and equitable conservation of forests to ensure a sustainable supply of forest-related goods and services. The IUCN Livelihoods and Landscapes Strategy aims to secure the rights and access of forest-dependent communities to forest products and markets for those products, to bring about real and meaningful change to the lives of the rural poor. Learn more
Mangroves supporting coastal development
Mangroves and healthy coastal ecosystems provide natural buffers to natural hazards, such as storm surges. IUCN is working with partners across countries in the Indian and Pacific Oceans to support long term sustainable coastal development that recognizes ecosystems as natural assets and infrastructure. These initiatives are raising awareness of the many benefits of coastal ecosystems and building local capacity to enhance food and livelihood security, disaster preparedness, and climate change adaptation.
Mangroves for the Future
The Pacific Mangrove Initiative
Water for people and nature in West Asia
Water scarcity is one of the predominant issues facing the arid West Asia region. As water is vital for biodiversity, human health, food production, and economic development, water shortages and conflict over water could become a significant threat to the region. IUCN’s Regional Water Resources & Drylands Programme (REWARD) is working to influence decision makers to adopt systemic approaches to water resource management by engaging them in demonstration projects and multi-stakeholder learning networks. Learn more
