Nature-based solutions for biodiversity, food security and health

By 2050, the world’s 9 billion people will require 60% more food, and 30% more water to ensure sustainable livelihoods. The natural resources to meet this demand are threatened by climate change and unsustainable crop, land and water management practices. Climate-resilient crop habitat managements; use of biological control, attractants and repellents to control pests and vector-borne diseases; and insect-based frass fertilizers are nature-based solutions. These conserve biodiversity, harnesses ecosystem services such as pollination, and contribute to crop productivity, soil health, food security and better livelihoods. Opportunities and challenges in scaling nature-based solutions for sustainable development will be presented and discussed.

11.00–11.10      

Introduction to the topic and agenda
Dr Subramanian Sevgan, Head, Environmental health theme, icipe

11.10–11.15

Harnessing ecosystem services for management and conservation of harmful and useful arthropods
Dr Sunday Ekesi, Head of Capacity building and Integrated Sciences, icipe

11.15–11.30

Biodiversity, food security and livelihood impact of pollinator and pollination-service conservation in Africa and beyond
Prof Christina M. Grozinger, Director, Center for Pollinator Research, Insect Biodiversity Center, PennState College of Agricultural Sciences, USA

11.30–11.45

Empowering smallholder farmers to scale nature based solutions
Dr Anne-Sophie Poisot,Policy and Markets Adviser, FAO

11.45–12.00

Role of development partners in fostering innovations and partnerships for scaling nature-based solutions
Dr Loredana Sorg,Co-Head of Development Projects, Biovision – Foundation for ecological development

12.00–12.15

Role of private sector in scaling nature-based solutions
Dr Peter Brändle,CEO, Éléphant Vert Group

12.15–12.55

Panel Discussion with speakers
Moderated by Dr Julius Ecuru, Head, Bioinnovate Africa, icipe

12.55–13.00

Closing remarks
Dr Thomas Dubois, Head, Plant Health Theme, icipe

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Dr Subramanian Sevgan, email:  ssubramania@icipe.org