Keeping the Environment Intact - A Core Concern of Development Cooperation

Environmental changes are not confined by any borders. Instead, they span the entire globe and affect all of mankind. Their impact is particularly merciless on those individuals who rely directly on the natural environment for their sustenance and livelihood. The ultimate consequences are poverty and hunger.

To counter the worldwide threat to our natural habitat, three conventions were adopted by the States attending the Rio Earth Summit in 1002. They are an expression of the will of the signatory States – Switzerland among them - to live according to the principles of sustainable development. The less privileged countries are to be provided with support in this endeavour. The goals set out in these environmental conventions are reflected in the development goals of the SDC. The conservation of biological diversity, of fertile soil, and of a stable climate are prerequisites for worldwide food security and the fight against poverty.

Under this block you will find sites and publications on "Environment as a cross-cutting issue", on issues linked with the three main multilateral Environmental Agreements: "Desertification","Biodiversity" and "Climate Change".

Just click on the corresponding notions in the left on the menu!