The World Bank has been actively tackling land degradation for several decades. Immediate perspectives such as the upcoming GEF7 and preparations of IDA18 investments, as well as longer term commitments such as on the SDGs stimulate current exchanges and inform future action.
In this context, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is finalizing the first evidence-based assessment of land degradation and the state of our ecosystems. The assessment shows that only 25% of the land surface is not substantively altered by human actions, undermining the well-being of 3.2 billion people. These lands have become deserts, polluted, deforested, or converted to agricultural production. If this trend continues, 95% of the Earth’s land areas could become degraded by 2050.
This seminar will delve into emerging new messages from the scientific community that should inform the Bank’s upcoming investments. Professor Bob Scholes, co-chair of the assessment, will share key findings, conceptual innovations and solutions against global land degradation.
Chair:
Magda Lovei, Practice Manager, ENR GP
Speaker:
Bob Scholes, Professor of Systems Energy, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, Co-chair of the IPBES Land Degradation Assessment
Discussant:
Ulrich Apel, Senior Environmental Specialist, GEF
