Foreword

This volume comes at a critical moment in the fight for a sustainable future. In 2002, the heads of state attending the Johannesburg World Summit on Sustainable Development agreed to substantially reduce the rate of biodiversity loss worldwide by 2010 – the so-called 2010 Biodiversity Target. However, today biodiversity is being lost more quickly than ever, with the current rate of extinction estimated to be up to 1,000 times higher than the natural background rate. This rapid and unprecedented loss of our biological resources poses a serious threat to humanity’s longterm health, well-being and prosperity.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Good Health and Well-Being

Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions