Priority Areas

Biodiversity is the variety of all forms of life and it is essential to the existence and proper functioning of all ecosystems. Biodiversity supports habitats for all species by providing many unique environments in which species can exist; these include ecosystems of all types and sizes, rare ecosystems, and corridors between habitats. Biodiversity promotes food security, clean air, water security, energy security, and provides raw materials economic development.

Many human activities can have a negative effect on biodiversity. Land developments for socioeconomic purposes can be especially detrimental because land conversion and subsequent loss of habitats can affect the stability or continued existence of species. People can also harm biodiversity by putting stress on environments and species through overuse of an environment and its resources. Habitat loss is a challenge for virtually all species, as humans convert natural habitats to other land uses.

An integrated landscape approach to conservation planning plays a key role in ensuring suitable habitats for species. However, many protected areas are not functioning as effectively as originally intended, due in part to limited resources to maintain these areas and/or enforce relevant legal frameworks. Efforts to preserve biodiversity must take into account not only the physical environment, but also social and economic systems that are well connected to biodiversity and ecosystem services.

A number of projects that have been supported by the Fund in the past include:

• Fencing of wetlands and water pans.
• Community ecosystem tourism developments