One of the underlying principles for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is to ‘leave no one behind’, as articulated in paragraphs 3, 4, 18, 23, 48, 72 and 74. Biodiversity and healthy ecosystems play an important role in the realization of this principle through their supporting role in achieving the 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs).
For example, ecosystem services are estimated to make up between 50% and 90% of the livelihoods of poor rural and forest-dwelling households. See our Biodiversity and SDGs page for more information.
Additionally, the UN Human Rights Council at its 34th Session noted that the loss of biodiversity-dependent ecosystem services has a disproportionate effect on people who are vulnerable for other reasons, including gender, age, disability, poverty or minority status. The loss of biodiversity-dependent ecosystem services is also likely to accentuate inequality and marginalization of the most vulnerable sectors of society, by decreasing their access to basic materials for a healthy life and by reducing their freedom of choice and action.
Featured Report
The Biodiversity-SDG Toolbox
Useful Resources
