Full name: Ecosystem-based Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco-DRR) Lead organizations: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), national governments Partners: UNEP, UNDRR, UNDP, national ministries, scientific institutions, local communities Geographical scope: Global, with projects in Central Asia, the Caucasus, South Asia, Africa, and Latin America
Eco-DRR is a global initiative and approach that promotes the use of healthy ecosystems as natural buffers against disaster risks. By preserving and restoring forests, wetlands, grasslands, mangroves, and other critical ecosystems, Eco-DRR helps reduce communities’ vulnerability to natural hazards such as floods, droughts, landslides, dust storms, and soil erosion.
The approach combines nature-based solutions with climate adaptation, sustainable land management, and rural development strategies to enhance resilience at all levels.
Objectives:
Reduce disaster risks through ecosystem conservation and restoration
Support local communities in implementing nature-based solutions
Strengthen resilience of agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods
Integrate ecosystem-based approaches into national and regional policies
Contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land)
Key Activities:
Forest and wetland restoration to mitigate flood risks
Rangeland rehabilitation and watershed management
Community training on sustainable land use and eco-solutions
Policy development that incorporates Eco-DRR principles
