Biodiversity

Preserving biodiversity is vital. GIZ advises partners on measures that protect ecosystems and benefit people.

Biological diversity is the totality of life on earth. It is also - and especially - about people. Diversity can arise, be preserved or lost through human influence.

Biological diversity is currently dwindling at an unprecedented rate worldwide. The main causes of this are land overuse and pollution, changes in land use, the displacement of traditional species by immigrant ("invasive") species and climate change. This loss endangers the livelihoods of all human beings and impairs the economic and cultural development opportunities of present and future generations.

Without biological diversity, there can be no functioning ecosystems. However, these are vital, because they not only provide us with food and medical active substances, but also offer a multitude of other ecosystem services: They are indispensable for climate regulation, offer protection against extreme weather events and provide clean drinking water; they are important for soil formation and nutrient cycles and serve as habitats and recreation areas. Biological diversity is also a risk insurance for the future: it plays a major role in adapting to climate change, for example in agriculture. The conservation of biodiversity and ecosystems is therefore fundamental for economic, social and cultural development.

On behalf of the Federal Government, GIZ supports its partner countries in implementing the objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in policy, planning and practice. The aim is the long-term maintenance of ecosystems and ecosystem services that contribute to economic development and poverty reduction.

The measures and objectives:

Successful biodiversity management

GIZ pursues the goal of systematically integrating biodiversity into politics and society and thus combating the causes of biodiversity loss. It promotes the sustainable use of ecosystems through information and advice. A central aspect is working with economic sectors that are currently making a significant contribution to reducing biological diversity.

Management of protected areas

Protected areas and their peripheral zones need a functioning management system so that they can fulfil their function. Poaching and illegal trade in wild animal products must be stopped.

Benefits for all

The preservation of ecosystems must bring benefits to people - only then will protective measures have a chance of success. GIZ is committed to equitable participation of all in ecosystem services and benefits. It advises its partners on the legal framework for Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS). This means that access to genetic resources and the resulting benefits are shared. GIZ supports the conclusion of ABS agreements between governments, the private sector and indigenous and local communities.