Restoring Degraded Forests and Landscapes in Drylands (webinar 5)

The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration was proclaimed in 2019 by more than 70 countries. It is a call for the protection and restoration of global ecosystems for the benefit of people and nature, and aims to prevent, halt and reverse the degradation of ecosystems. Furthermore, the 25th session of the Near East Forestry and Range Commission requested FAO to continue supporting member countries with implementation of actions aimed at combating land degradation, conserving biodiversity and adapting to climate change; and called FAO to strengthen collaboration and synergies with international organizations including through the implementation of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

In this context, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), co-leading the UN Decade, are implementing a series of webinars aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of ecosystem restoration in the Near East and North Africa region and discussing country expectations in terms of ecosystem restoration.

Drylands are characterized by water scarcity, fragility and reduced productivity, mainly due to frequent droughts and limited rainfall. Difficult climate conditions, inappropriate and unsustainable practices as well as inadequate policies and water management strategies’ implementation led to desertification, biodiversity loss and insufficient socioeconomic development in these areas. This webinar highlights the role of forests in tackling the challenges that confront drylands at global level, and the role of drylands for the provision of goods and environmental services in the Near East and North Africa region. It highlights success stories and practical examples on restoration of degraded forests and landscapes in drylands.

The webinar aims to guide participants towards an understanding of:

• The FAO global guidelines for the restoration for degraded forests and landscapes in drylands and examples of its successful application at country level.
• What are the main elements of success of silvopastoral restoration? Country example.
• What are successful results and actions from the countries to respond to degradation issues?
• What is the role of participatory approaches in restoration initiatives?