In a small village in Somalia's Middle Shabelle region, fear gripped the community as storm clouds loomed. For years, erratic rains led to devastating floods that destroyed homes and fields, followed by harsh dry seasons and sandstorms that worsened land degradation. However, residents now believe they have broken this destructive cycle through intentional actions. With support from the International Organization for Migration () and the local non-profit Shaqadoon, the community of Harqabobe has focused on building defenses that work with the water, rather than against it, fostering resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Natural Resources and the Environment
The Deliver-E Coalition unites major global food and grocery delivery platforms to accelerate the shift to , aiming to reduce emissions, and improve urban air quality.
UNESCO’s 5th World Congress added over 26 new , strengthening global efforts in biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable development initiatives.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (), with the Green Climate Fund () funding, are implementing native forest conservation projects which include generating livelihoods and preserving ancestral traditions of rural communities in Argentina, Colombia, and Chile. Don't miss the opportunity to see the impact of these efforts, check out the photo story!
In Benin, black soldier fly larvae decompose organic waste in 12 days, producing natural fertilizer that boosts soil and crop yields.
There are over across the globe, but many are undergoing dramatic changes. Climate change, pollution, and excessive water use are causing lakes to shrink, overflow, or even . According to Dianna Kopansky of the UN Environment Programme (), some of the world’s most iconic lakes have deteriorated significantly in recent decades. She warns that reversing this trend is essential, as countless people depend on lakes for their survival. In honor of the first World Lake Day, here’s a closer look at the biggest threats to the world’s lakes – and what can be done about them.
Air pollution is a major environmental health risk that worsens climate change, harms economies, and reduces agricultural productivity. It affects everyone, highlighting the need for a collective approach to protect our atmosphere. By working across borders, sectors, and communities, we can reduce pollution through shared efforts and investment. On International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies (7 September), we urge governments, corporations, civil society, and individuals to act. By tackling air pollution proactively, we can achieve significant change and ensure healthy air for all.
Lakes are among the most vital natural resources on our planet. They provide essential fresh water for drinking, agriculture, and industry. Lakes also play a key role in maintaining biodiversity and contributing to climate regulation. However, they are increasingly threatened by a combination of overuse, pollution and climate change. We must act now. On this first World Lake Day (27 August), let's raise awareness about the challenges lakes face. Let’s to sustain life tomorrow.
The ocean, covering over 70% of our planet, is vital for human existence but faces crises from pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Grassroots actions are essential, exemplified by Shabib Asghar, a PADI Dive Master and from Pakistan. After his first dive in 2015, he became Director of Marine conservation Pakistan and launched the Reef Revival Initiative in 2025, focusing on organic coral propagation without artificial structures. Leading a dedicated team, Shabib empowers youth through hands-on projects, promoting sustainable practices like eco-friendly fishing and habitat restoration to protect coastal ecosystems.
Franklin Olivo was exploring the Tagarkunyal jungle in Panama's Darién province when he encountered a harpy eagle, the largest eagle in the Americas. This bird, recognized as Panama's national symbol, holds significant cultural importance for Indigenous groups and plays a crucial role in the rainforest ecosystem. However, it faces threats from hunting and habitat loss, particularly in the Darién region, which is also plagued by poverty and illegal activities. Despite economic pressures from agriculture, logging, and mining, the Guna and other Indigenous Peoples play a vital role in conserving the rainforest through their traditional knowledge and community stewardship. Franklin's sighting of the eagle was part of a monitoring project initiated by Guna leaders to empower local youth as environmental guardians.
Dayana Blanco, from Bolivia, and Maggie Bukowa, from Zambia, represent two influential voices of change within a global network dedicated to talent, conviction, and passion, which serves as the foundation for the . This initiative recognizes the invaluable wisdom and knowledge of Indigenous Peoples and local communities worldwide. Supported by the governments of Norway and Germany, the Equator Initiative aligns with the UNDP's and initiatives, which aim to enhance livelihoods while safeguarding nature and human rights. The inaugural was established in 2002 during the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, also known as Rio+10, building upon the commitments made during the landmark 1992 Earth Summit.
. What do lush tea fields, spicy wasabi, and floodplains that double as community parks have in common? They’re all part of a global movement where people and nature thrive together! In from UNDP Nature, you’ll meet the passionate locals and Indigenous leaders behind COMDEKS — an initiative that blends age-old traditions with modern smarts to protect biodiversity and boost livelihoods. Follow their journey from the forests of Costa Rica to the satoyama heartlands of Japan, and discover how sustainable farming, clever land management, and a whole lot of community spirit are turning everyday places into pockets of ecological magic. It’s proof that saving the planet can start right in your backyard—and yes, it can be delicious too.
Where land and sea meet, a unique ecosystem is found: mangrove forests. Whether offering protection from climate change, supporting livelihoods, biodiversity and more, mangroves benefit us all. In the first study of its kind, , with experts around the world, uncovered a wealth of information on the extent of mangrove forests globally, as well a glimpse into what causes mangrove losses and gains. Find out more about this precious ecosystem and see how mangroves affect our daily lives.
International support and local action are reviving , paving the way for their removal from .
, a UNOPS-supported regional initiative, is uniting Caribbean nations, communities, and organizations to restore marine ecosystems, empower coastal livelihoods, and build a sustainable blue economy for future generations.