Explore the Dimensions of the Link between
Poverty and the Environment

We have framed the relationship between poverty and ecosystems through the following related but distinct themes. The links below lead to brief articles describing these issues in more depth. Along with providing a conceptual framework, we have collected a wealth of resources to delve deeper into these subject areas.

1. The poor have unique concerns relating to the environment and are disproportionately vulnerable to adverse environmental conditions.

• Forests & The Rural Poor
• Fisheries and Reefs
• Climate Change & Poverty

2. Degraded environments are a constraint to development and hinder attempts at poverty alleviation. Ecosystem goods and services, when taken into account, can improve poverty reduction efforts.

• PRSP's & Mainstreaming
• The Environmental Income of the Poor
• Agriculture & Development

3. Local control over natural resources, combined with democratic and transparent governance, are sound strategies for protecting the environment and promoting development for those who need it most.

• The Argument for Decentralization
• Tenure & Common Property Resources
• Global Governance & The Millenium Development Goals