Policy brief: Nature for Resilience

Ecosystem degradation and unsustainable natural resource management are drivers of climate and disaster risk, as recognized by the Sendai Framework. This policy brief explores the link between human and ecosystem vulnerability and provides key insights on how nature contributes to preventing disasters and reducing people’s vulnerability and exposure to them. It further provides policy recommendations for increased uptake and investment in actions that build nature's resilience.

Some of the key points of the policy brief include:

• Healthy and resilient ecosystems are key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals as well as the objectives of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 (Sendai Framework) and the Paris Agreement. However, there are noticeable gaps in terms of specific data, pathways and evidence regarding the ways in which changes in ecosystem functions and services contribute to vulnerability or resilience building.
• Linking actions for nature and climate with disaster risk reduction efforts offers a chance to achieve resilience benefits for both people and the planet. This requires collaborative efforts in policy and practice, including the implementation of integrated multi-beneficial approaches such as nature-based solutions. 
• There is a clear link between human and ecosystem vulnerability. Evidence shows that land-use changes and environmental degradation affect the occurrence and severity of natural hazards. Transforming current unsustainable development patterns can address the increasing exposure and vulnerability of people and ecosystems to climate-related hazards.

Please note that the policy brief is currently available in English. It will be published in all 6 UN official languages in the coming months.