In 2015, 195 countries adopted the landmark Paris Agreement with the aim of enhancing global action to address climate change. IUCN was among the first international organizations to flag the impacts of humans and modern technological development on nature, and call for research, practical action, and international-level coordination to address environmental and climate issues.
The 1972 World Heritage Convention and Protected areas legislation are important mechanisms for achieving biodiversity conservation and protecting human livelihoods. IUCN has been integral to the historical development of the ideas behind these mechanisms and for setting new standards for on-the-ground implementation today.
Working with governments, local communities and other stakeholders, IUCN’s Water and Nature Initiative (WANI) has contributed to reducing poverty, improving livelihoods and healthy ecosystems by helping people access and manage river flows in over 30 countries.