Recognizing the interdependency of the three pillars of sustainable development - social, economic and environmental, IUCN’s work in Eastern and Southern Africa underscores the fact that sustainable economic development depends on sound environmental management. ESARO, in line with IUCN’s Global Programme goals, focuses on five global thematic areas, namely biodiversity conservation, climate change, sustainable energy, human well-being and green economy. Working within these themes, the region has the following programmes:
What we do
Conservation areas and species diversity
IUCN engages directly in biodiversity conservation in the region through its innovative thematic programme, Conservation Areas and Species Diversity (CASD).
Water and wetlands
IUCN has a long history of engagement in water and wetlands conservation in the region.
Forests and woodlands
Eastern and Southern Africa is home to a wide range of forest and woodland types which are endowed with a considerable diversity of flora and fauna.
Climate change
The Climate Change Programme provides the knowledge, tools and support required to reduce people’s vulnerability to climate change and enhance their capacity to adapt to its impacts.
Drylands
Drylands—from hyper arid to dry sub humid —cover over two thirds of the Eastern and Southern Africa region and are home to more than 60% of the region’s population.
Biodiversity, economics and business
The value of biodiversity and ecosystem services to human well-being is increasingly being recognized in Eastern and Southern Africa.
Invasive species
Biological invasions are a serious threat to ecosystems and species across the world as well as to human development, human health and livelihoods.
