Promoting cross-sectoral co-operation on biodiversity conservation

Integrating conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity into relevant sectoral or cross sectoral plans. Considering biodiversity conservation needs in the environmental assessment of sectoral and cross-sectoral strategies, plans, programmes, policies and projects.

Biodiversity questions are largely cross-sectoral, and the only way in which conservation and sustainable use can be tackled effectively is by a collective endeavour which pulls together the seemingly diverse institutions characterising the various sectors. Sectoral-specific strategies to ensure the sustainable use of biological resources and minimise adverse impacts on biodiversity are only part of the solution.

Article 6 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) specifically requests each party to: "integrate as far as possible and as appropriate, the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity into relevant sectoral or cross-sectoral plans, programmes and policies." This key recommendation requires the drafting of biodiversity plans by relevant government institutions. These plans should reflect the integration of biodiversity considerations in relevant sectoral budgets. A political commitment to achieving this, through the allocation of necessary budgets, is fundamental to the successful implementation of this strategy.

Human activities may have positive or negative impacts on the sustainable use of biodiversity. A good assessment of the impact of strategies, policies, programmes, plans and projects on biodiversity is key to the promotion of sustainability. In the first instance activities with a potential negative impact need to be identified in order to find solutions that will avoid or minimise such an impact. Secondly, the most efficient options for meeting the needs of biodiversity conservation should be identified.