Biodiversity Strategy Planning in a Sustainable Development ......• PLANNING GUIDE •...

• PLANNING GUIDE

• BIODIVERSITY PLANNING MATRIX

• NATIONAL CASE STUDIES

• SYNERGY BETWEEN INTERNATIONALCONVENTIONS

Biodiversity Strategy Planning in a Sustainable

Development Context


Development Context

UNEPForthcoming

Jacques PrescottBenoît GauthierJonas Nagahuedi Mbongu Sodi

Institut de l’énergie et de l’environnement de la Francophonie (IEPF)

Ministère de l’Environnement du Québec

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

September 2000


Development Context

PRODUCTION TEAM

Authors: Jacques Prescott, M. Sc.Direction du patrimoine écologiqueet du développement durableMinistère de l’Environnement du Québec

Benoît Gauthier, Ph. D.Direction du patrimoine écologiqueet du développement durableMinistère de l’Environnement du Québec

Jonas Nagahuedi Mbongu Sodi, Ph. D.Coordinator of the Conventionon Biological DiversityDemocratic Republic of CongoCITES Assistant Coordinator for Africa

Reading Committee: G. Ken CreightonBiodiversity Planning Support ProgrammeUnited Nations Development Programme

David DuthieBiodiversity Planning Support ProgrammeUnited Nations Environment Programme

Léopold GaudreauDirection du patrimoine écologiqueet du développement durableMinistère de l’Environnement du Québec

Jeffrey McNeelyThe World Conservation Union (IUCN)

Kenton MillerWorld Resources Institute

Ibrahim ThiawThe World Conservation Union (IUCN)Regional Office for West Africa

Editorial Assistance: Gaétane Tardif,Environmental Consultant

Translation: Barbara Pattison, Traduction Tandem

Design: Communications Science-Impact

Photographies: Jacques Prescott, unless otherwisemention

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The publication of this paper was made possible bythe financial assistance of the United NationsDevelopment Programme’s Biodiversity PlanningSupport Programme, United Nations EnvironmentProgramme’s, the Institut de l’énergie et de l’envi-ronnement de la Francophonie and the Ministère del’Environnement du Québec. The authors wish tothank all those who have contributed to the deve-lopment of this document with their comments andsuggestions with a special consideration for thenational planning teams that have used the proposedmethodology in their biodiversity planning exercises.

Disponible aussi en françaisPrinted in Canada

Citation: Prescott J., Gauthier B. and J. NagahuediMbongu Sodi, 2000, Biodiversity StrategyPlanning in a Sustainable DevelopmentContext, Institut de l’énergie et del’environnement de la Francophonie (IEPF),Ministère de l’Environnement du Québec,United Nations Development Programme(UNDP), United Nations EnvironmentProgramme, Québec, Canada.

On a global scale, loss of biodiversity is recogni-zed as one of the most critical environmentalproblems facing mankind. In ratifying the United

Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, 176nations have, to date, agreed to contribute to inter-national efforts directed at the conservation of bio-diversity, the sustainable use of biological resourcesand the equitable sharing of the benefits arising out ofthe utilization of genetic resources, conditions regar-ded as key to sustainable development.

One of the commitments undertaken by parties tothe Convention on Biological Diversity is the prepa-ration of a biodiversity strategy and action plan.According to the United Nations DevelopmentProgramme (UNDP), many countries encounter pro-blems in implementing the multisectoral planningapproach recommended by the Convention onBiological Diversity. In 1998, a study conducted bythe Secretariat of the Convention also showed thatmethodological resources to facilitate work with thenew, complex and multisectoral nature of biodiver-sity planning were inadequate (UNEP/CBD/COP/4/11).

The present publication proposes the use of a frame-work developed in Cadre de référence théorique pourle développement durable et la biodiversité au Québec*(Gauthier 1995, 1998). This framework is a simple,effective tool intended for managers, planners, coor-dinators, national focal points and experts involved inthe preparation and implementation of national bio-diversity strategies and action plans. It was used as afoundation for the preparation of a multisectoral stra-tegy and action plan in Quebec in 1996. These plan-ning documents, the implementation of which has, todate,been the subject of four annual reports, have ledto the mobilization of numerous ministries, agenciesand non-governmental organizations in Quebec wor-king in the field of biodiversity. The framework has

also been used in one of Quebec’s administrativeregions (Saguenay–Lac-St-Jean), the DemocraticRepublic of Congo, the Republic of Niger, the IslamicRepublic of Mauritania, the Republic of Djibouti andthe Sultanate of Oman.

The promotion of the biodiversity planning matrixdeveloped in Quebec was the subject of a recom-mendation made in workshops at the FourteenthGlobal Biodiversity Forum (Prescott and Gauthier,1999a). The framework was also presented at theFourth Meeting of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific,Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA) inMontreal (Canada) in June 1999 with a view toimproving the integration of biodiversity into secto-ral planning exercises. Experience has also showedthat the use of this matrix can facilitate the inte-grated implementation of biodiversity relatedconventions.

F O R E W O R D

3

1. [Theoretical framework for sustainable development andbiodiversity in Quebec]; available in French only.

The Convention on Biological Diversity,a Sustainable Development Lever................................7

The Challenge of Implementingthe Convention on Biological Diversity .....................9

The Sustainable Developmentand Biodiversity Planning Matrix ...............................11

General Presentation and Useof the Planning Matrix ..................................................11

The Biodiversity Planning Matrix:An Overview.....................................................................15

Integrating the Various Thematic Areas of theConvention on Biological Diversity into thePlanning Matrix ..............................................................18

Detailed Presentation and Examplesof the Use of Planning Matrix Themes.....................19

Theme 1 : Energy Resources...............................21Theme 2 : Conservation

of Natural Resources .......................22Theme 3 : Development

of Wildlife Resources.......................25Theme 4 : Development

of Forest Resources ..........................26Theme 5 : Development

of Agricultural Resources...............28Theme 6 : Development

of Mineral Resources .......................30Theme 7 : Industrial Development

of Technology and Services ...........32Theme 8 : Development of the Urban

and Rural Environment ...................34

Theme 9 : Atmosphericand Aquatic Basins ...........................36

Theme 10: Territories underSpecial Jurisdiction ..........................38

Theme 11: Environmentaland Civil Emergencies .....................39

Theme 12: Eco-civism ...........................................41Theme 13: Societal Values ...................................43Theme 14: Quality of Life ....................................45Theme 15: Spiritual and Religious Values......46

Planning Biodiversity Strategiesand Action Plans: Case Studies....................................49

Quebec ..............................................................................49

Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean ........................................51

Democratic Republic of Congo.................................53

Republic of Niger ..........................................................55

Islamic Republic of Mauritania ................................57

Republic of Djibouti .....................................................59

Sultanate of Oman .......................................................61

Synergy BetweenBiodiversity-Related Conventions..............................63

Conclusion .................................................................................69

Bibliography ..............................................................................70

C O N T E N T S

5

Biological diversity, or biodiversity, refers to thevariety of species and ecosystems on Earth andthe processes of which they are part. It is made

up of three components: species diversity, ecosystemdiversity and genetic diversity.

Biodiversity supports human societies on ecological,economic, cultural and spiritual levels. Its benefitsare, however, compromised by human activity which,in conjunction with population growth, results in therapid deterioration of ecosystems and a decline inthe number of species and their genetic diversity.

The Convention on Biological Diversity is a key ins-trument that serves to promote and guide actionsfor biodiversity conservation and the sustainable useof biological resources. Since the Earth Summit inRio de Janeiro in 1992, over 176 nations have ratifiedthis international convention. The primary objectivesof the Convention are as follows:

• the conservation of biological diversity, that is,the variety and variability of genes, species andecosystems;

• the sustainable use of biodiversity components;and

• the fair and equitable sharing of the benefitsarising from the utilization of genetic resources.

The three objectives of the Convention on BiologicalDiversity call to mind the three dimensions of sus-tainable development (the environmental dimension– maintain environmental integrity, the economicdimension – improve economic efficiency, and thesocial dimension – develop social equity), making theConvention a real lever for the implementation ofsustainable development. Signing countries agree, asit were, to contribute to the protection of the natu-ral environment, guided by the definition of sustai-nable development proposed by the BrundtlandCommission in 1987: “Development which meets theneeds of the present without compromising the abi-lity of future generations to meet their own needs.”(WORLD COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENT ANDDEVELOPMENT, 1987).

T H E C O N V E N T I O N O N B I O L O G I C A L D I V E R S I T Y ,A S U S T A I N A B L E D E V E L O P M E N T L E V E R

7

When the Convention on Biological Diversity isratified by a country, the latter is bound byits terms to undertake the preparation of a

biodiversity strategy. This strategy must aim toachieve the objectives of the Convention.

National biodiversity planners may rely on a numberof instruments developed with the express purposeof assisting them in implementing the Conventionon Biological Diversity, including publications byCarew-Reid et al (1994), Miller and Lanou (1995) andHagan (1999). These documents basically describethe steps involved in the elaboration of a strategyand action plan, from work organization to the pre-paration of biodiversity reports.

In addition to following certain preliminary steps inthe elaboration of an effective strategy, biodiversityplanners are faced with a significant hurdle when itcomes to selecting the key themes to be covered bythe actual strategy. Indeed, these themes must bothintegrate all the problems observed on a nationalscale and allow the formulation of achievable, mea-surable actions. Planners and decision makers need aglobal framework to allow them to define their areasof action and describe in simple terms the innume-rable interactions that exist between human activi-ties and the natural environment. They also have tomake an effort to integrate in their national plan-ning exercises the numerous commitments associa-ted with the diverse international conventions rela-ted to biodiversity.

Biodiversity is a vast domain that may be interpretedor viewed differently depending on the point of viewor field of expertise. For example, in the course of itsactivities, the Conference of the Parties addressed anumber of thematic areas to guide biodiversity plan-ners in their work. Topics include diverse natural eco-systems (inland waters, marine and coastal waters,mountains, forest, etc.), sectors of activity (biosafety,sustainable tourism, taxonomy, etc.) or issues relatedto assessment (criteria and indicators), sharing,

synergy between conventions, etc. At the time of thiswriting, there were some 20 key themes around whicha national biodiversity strategy could be structured(see table 1), and the list is likely to be extended asthe work of the Conference of the Parties progresses.

TABLE 1Thematic Areas Formulated bythe Conference of the Parties tothe Convention on Biological Diversity

Thematic AreasAccess and Benefit SharingProtected AreasBiosafetyCriteria and IndicatorsAgrobiodiversityForest BiodiversityMountain BiodiversityMarine and Coastal BiodiversityInland Water EcosystemsDryland EcosystemsSpecies and TaxonomyImpact AssessmentIncentive MeasuresBiodiversity Legal IssuesCapacity BuildingTraditional KnowledgeBiodiversity Funding SourcesSynergy with Rio Conventions and OtherBiodiversity ConventionsSustainable TourismSustainable Use of Biodiversity

T H E C H A L L E N G E O F I M P L E M E N T I N GT H E C O N V E N T I O N O N B I O L O G I C A L D I V E R S I T Y

9

The ecosystemic approach advocated by theConvention on Biological Diversity is extremely usefulin the production of national monographs which pro-vide a portrait of natural resources and environmentsand evaluate efforts undertaken in the field of biodi-versity. However, when it comes to preparing a stra-tegy and action plan that call upon all sectors concer-ned and encourage their participation in a concertednational effort, this approach poses problems. Indeed,in most countries, global planning and managementof biodiversity resources are conducted by sectorrather than by ecosystem.

Given that one of the greatest challenges in theimplementation of a national biodiversity strategy isthat of appealing to all sectors involved so as toinduce as many partners as possible (managers, far-mers, breeders, fishermen, forestry workers, traditio-nal healers, mining workers, land use planners, edu-cators, etc.), both from the public and the privatesectors, to participate in the attainment of the sta-ted objectives, it is imperative that the sectoralmanagement approach, which is ultimately effectivein human organizations, be given consideration.

In other words, while the state of national biodiver-sity may be successfully analysed using an ecosys-tem approach, implementing the strategy will proveless problematic if a sectoral approach, that is, aresource-based approach, is employed. By appealingto managers in their own particular sector of acti-vity, the sector approach raises their awareness ofthe impact of their activities; they may then morereadily become involved in an intersectoral collabo-ration process.

An integrated sectoral approach contributes to the“ecosystemic approach” recommended in the textsof the Convention on Biological Diversity and facili-tates taking into account of the commitments asso-ciated with the diverse biodiversity-related conven-tions. Indeed, the ecosystemic approach refers to thecollaboration that must be established between thepartners implementing the strategy in order to pre-vent their respective activities from causing ecosys-tem degradation. Ultimately, an integrated nationalmanagement strategy that favours the conservationand sustainable development of land, water andliving resources in an equitable manner will have tobe elaborated (UNEP/CBD/SBSTTA/511).

By directly inviting all players to subscribe to theprinciples of the biodiversity strategy and participatein the achievement of its objectives, planners will, inall institutions, enhance understanding of theconcept of biological diversity and commitment the-reto, thereby contributing to the success of thenational strategy.

The planning matrix presented in the following pagesis intended to encourage sector players to partici-pate in the implementation of the Convention onBiological Diversity.

Biodiversity Strategy Planning in a Sustainable Development Context

10

Atheoretical frame of reference for sustainabledevelopment and biodiversity was recentlydeveloped by ecologist Benoît Gauthier, from

the Ministère de l’Environnement du Québec, to faci-litate the implementation of the Convention ofBiological Diversity (Gauthier 1995, 1996, 1998). It isessentially a framework or planning matrix to assistbiodiversity planners.

Experience has shown that this framework can easilybe adapted to any social, political or geographicalcontext and contribute to the integration of biodi-versity related conventions (Prescott, Gauthier andGaudreau, 1998, 1999; Prescott and Gauthier,1999b). Indeed, in addition to proving its relevance inQuebec and in one of its administrative regions(Saguenay–Lac-St-Jean), it has been used by natio-nal planning teams to prepare national biodiversitystrategies and action plans for four African coun-tries, namely, the Democratic Republic of Congo, theRepublic of Niger, the Islamic Republic of Mauritaniaand the Republic of Djibouti, as well as for oneMiddle Eastern country, the Sultanate of Oman.

GENERAL PRESENTATIONAND USE OF THE PLANNING MATRIX

Implementing the Convention on Biological Diversityis a cyclic, adaptive process comprising seven stepsdescribed in detail by Miller and Lanou (1995). Figure1 gives an overview of these steps. The planningmatrix presented in table 2 contributes mainly to therealization of steps 3, 4 and 5 of this process, namely,the development and implementation of a biodiver-sity strategy and action plan. It may also prove use-ful in the realization of other steps of the process.

The horizontal axis of the matrix shows the fivebroad phases involved in the development of a natio-nal strategy and action plan: a) bases for action, b)objectives and directions, c) actions, d) aspects rela-ted to implementation, and e) indicators. The verti-cal axis is built around 15 themes, which integrateall current issues and any issues that might be raisedby the Conference of the Parties in the future. The15 themes proposed bring together all sectors in

society whose activities are likely to directly or indi-rectly impact biodiversity. Each theme comprises anumber of subthemes or sectors of activity (whichare presented in detail in the section ‘’DetailedPresentation and Examples of the Use of PlanningMatrix Themes’’), thus allowing a single strategy tocall upon all social players and create a synergy bet-ween them.

The first theme deals with activities associated withenergy production, transport and use (1). The followingseven themes (2 to 8) refer to systems recognized by eco-logists; they reflect the escalation of human impact onthe territory (Dansereau 1957, 1970) and the use made ofthe territory and resources (conservation of resources,exploitation of fauna and flora, agriculture, mines, indus-tries, technology and services, activities associated withthe urban and rural environment. The atmospheric andaquatic basins (9) are used in determining the environ-mental quality of resource development; they encom-pass management and monitoring activities for air andwater, the ultimate reservoirs for polluting emissions.Territories under special jurisdiction (10) concern, forexample, Aboriginal reserves, overseas territories andenclaves governed by specific agreements. Environmentaland civil emergencies (11) integrate prevention and res-ponse mechanisms and disasters. Two themes deal withindividual (12. Eco-civism: Participation) and collective(13. Societal Values: Education, Legislation, Cooperation)values and are closely related to quality of life (14. SocialSecurity, Health, Financial Activities), often consideredto be the ultimate goal of sustainable development. Thefinal theme (15. Spiritual Values) focuses on man’s wis-dom, morality and spirituality, values generally overloo-ked by planners yet essential to effective biodiversitymanagement.

The 15 themes presented in the planning matrix cover,within a limited number of categories, all the topicsand activities directly or indirectly related to biodiver-sity. In preparing or revising a national strategy, a plan-ning team may use these themes as a basis whenselecting subjects to be addressed in its planningefforts. If necessary, it could take one (or other) of thesector activities covered by the themes as a chapter

T H E S U S T A I N A B L E D E V E L O P M E N TA N D B I O D I V E R S I T Y P L A N N I N G M A T R I X

11


12

STEP 1Governmental Mandate

and Organization of Work

Creation of a CommitteeResponsible for the

Implementation of the ConventionSTEP 2

Assessment

National BiodiversityPortrait and Studies

STEP 3Developing a Strategy

National BiodiversityStrategy

STEP 4Developing a Plan

of Action

National BiodiversityAction Plan

STEP 6Monitoring and

Evaluation

Indicators

STEP 7Periodic Reporting

National or CountryReport

STEP 5Implementationby Stakeholders

FIGURE 1A Seven-Step Implementation Process for the Convention on Biological Diversity

(adapted from Miller et Lanou, 1995)

The Sustainable Development and Biodiversity Planning Matrix

heading. In developing a portrait of the situation, iden-tifying objectives or determining priority actions, theplanning team may examine the relations that existbetween each of the themes. For example, in develo-ping the theme Conservation of Natural Resources, theimpact on the conservation of resources of activitieslisted under the 14 other themes would be brought tolight. Tables 3 to 9, presented in the section dealingwith case studies, show how the integrating themeswere addressed by different planning teams.

To prepare a national biodiversity strategy, therelevant information must be filed under each hea-ding in the matrix. Planners must:

1. Adequately delimit the territory in question andthe appropriate scale of perception.

2. Take note of the 15 integrating themes proposedand the sector activities related to each theme.

3. Select those themes and associated subthemesthat are relevant to the national context.

4. For each theme selected at the national level,apply the decision process, identifying:• bases for action (concerns, data, pressures

and impacts, litigation);• objectives or directions;• actions (related to data and information,

development and planning, management orcooperation and coordination);

• aspects related to implementation (scientificand technological requirements, responsibili-ties and human resources, financial resources,expected results)

• indicators.

The section ”Detailed Presentation and Examplesof the Use of Planning Matrix Themes” describesthe content of each of the themes and givesexamples of how to fill in the matrix.

The following criteria may be used to identify thepriority actions that will be included in the natio-nal action plan:

• geographical impact (national actions take pre-cedence over local actions);

13

• consistency with the objectives of theConvention on Biological Diversity (actionswhich indirectly affect biological diversity aredeemed less relevant);

• consistency with national objectives and direc-tions;

• urgency;• sequence (certain actions, related to knowledge

acquisition for example, ought to be implementedbefore others);

• opportunity (substantial interest or genuinecommitment on the part of partners or fundingparties).

The use of this planning matrix has many advantages:

• it limits the number of topics for considerationto a finite list of 15 themes;

• it ensures that all activities impacting conser-vation and the sustainable use of biodiversityare taken into account (including activities rela-ted to the implementation of other biodiversityrelated conventions);

• it calls upon potential managers and partnersand encourages their participation. The strategypasses from the hands of experts into those ofgovernment managers and their partners, the-reby maximizing spin-offs;

• it fosters synergy between players and sectoractions;

• it can be adapted to each territory’s particularsituation; themes may be merged or subdividedas necessary;

• it increases transparency and prevents duplica-tion of efforts in the event, for example, of theperson in charge of biodiversity in an organiza-tion leaving;

• it can be used to cover territories of all sizes.

The various steps and themes included in this plan-ning tool are detailed in the following section ”TheBiodiversity Planning Matrix: An Overview”.

Biodiversity Strategy Planning in a Sustainable Development Context (Prescott et al., 2000)

14

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15

THE BIODIVERSITY PLANNING MATRIX:AN OVERVIEW

Activity Sectors Covered by theIntegrating Themes (Vertical Axis)1. Energy Resources• Energy resources development.• Energy production and transportation.• Energy use, etc.

2. Conservation of Natural Resources• Establishment and development of a represen-

tative network of protected areas.• Management of protected areas.• Maintenance or restoration of fauna and flora

at risk (rare, threatened or vulnerable species).• Conservation, outside of protected areas, of

non-exploited species.• Establishment, development and management

of ex-situ conservation sites (zoos, botanicalgardens, arboretums, seed banks and seed pro-duction centres, etc.).

3. Development of Wildlife Resources• Knowledge of exploited animal species and their

habitats.• Management of wildlife exploited through hun-

ting, trapping, sport- and commercial fishing.

4. Development of Forest Resources• Logging.• Forest management and reforestation.• Gathering of leaves, fruits, fungi, medicinal

plants.• Production of pulp, paper, paperboard, etc.

5. Development of Agricultural Resources• Cereal crops.• Vegetable crops.• Irrigation.• Pastoralism.• Livestock production.• Aquaculture.• Processing of agricultural and livestock products,

etc.

6. Development of Mineral Resources• Mining resources extractive activities.• Metallurgical processing of mining resources.• Inorganic chemistry.• Restoration of mining sites, etc.

7. Industrial Development of Technologyand Services

• Biotechnology.• Petrochemistry.• Plastics processing.• Computer technology.• Tourism.• Regular control measures for harmful species

(pests, parasites), etc.

8. Development of the Urbanand Rural Environment

• Land use planning.• Urban sprawl.• Demography.• Waste management.• Transport, etc.

9. Atmospheric and Aquatic Basins• Air quality monitoring.• Climate change monitoring.• Use of water resources (coastal areas, inland

waters, wetlands, etc.) to meet human needs(potable water, industrial processes, agricultu-ral production, etc.).

• Water quality monitoring.

10. Territories under Special Jurisdiction• Management of Aboriginal territories.• Management of overseas principalities, minis-

tries and territories, etc.

11. Environmental and Civil Emergencies• Prediction and prevention, as appropriate, of

disasters.• Planning and coordination of responses to disasters.• Restoration, as appropriate, of sites struck by a

disaster.• Control of invasive pest species, etc.

12. Eco-civism (Civil society participation)• Participation in activities related to the planning

and implementation of biodiversity strategiesand action plans.

• Encouragement and support for local initiativesthat contribute to the conservation and sustai-nable management of biological diversity, etc.

13. Societal Values• Public awareness, education, and training.• Research.• Adoption and revision of laws and regulations

(legal and institutional framework).• Environmental impact studies.• International cooperation and the implementa-

tion of the various conventions on biodiversity.

14. Quality of Life• Ensuring environmental, economic and social

security.• Health promotion.• Distribution of wealth, etc.

15. Spiritual and Religious Values• Knowledge and practices of biodiversity

resources management related to spiritualvalues.

• Dissemination and practice of spiritual values,religious precepts, cultural taboos, etc.

DECISION PROCESS (HORIZONTAL AXIS)

(The example given below deals with the themeEnergy Resources. It shows how the boxes in thematrix should be filled out for this theme.)

Bases for Action – Gathering Informationand Analysing the National SituationConcerns(International, National and Provincial):List of conventions, policies or agreements to whichthe country is party.

Example: The following conventions were ratified natio-nally: Convention on Biological Diversity, FrameworkConvention on Climate Change, Convention to CombatDesertification, Ramsar Convention, etc. By virtue ofthese conventions, the country wishes to reduce theimpact of energy demand on biodiversity, etc.

Data (Society, Economy, Environment):Information from monographs or other nationaldocuments that describe, quantify or qualify biodi-versity resources and their use.

Example: Traditional energy resources, namely, woodand charcoal, meet over 80 percent of the nationalenergy demand; for households, this figure increasesto 90 percent.

Pressures and Impacts:List of pressures and impacts on biodiversity.

Example: The unplanned harvesting of fuelwoodresults in deforestation.

Litigation:Conflicts, social debates or problems, at a local,regional or national level, that could interfere withthe attainment of objectives.

Example: The use of forms of energy other thanwood is costly and is not approved of by the popu-lation and certain national groups.

Objectives and Directions –Preparing the National StrategyThe objectives or directions of the national strategywill be formulated on the basis of the informationgiven in the section “Bases for Action.”

Example: Promote the sustainable use of fuelwood.

Actions –Preparing the National Action PlanData and Information:Actions related to the gathering, analysis and moni-toring of information required to achieve the statedobjectives or directions.

Example: Set up a system to monitor fuelwood har-vesting in regions where forests are threatened.

Development and Planning:Actions related to the elaboration of policies, pro-grammes, and projects or to land use planning andbuilding of infrastructures.

Example: Develop a national programme for energysafety and efficiency.


16


Related to Management:Actions related to the development and exploitationof resources.

Example: Develop blueprints for fuelwood supply.

Cooperation and Coordination:Actions related to cooperation with neighbouringcountries or the coordination of national activities.

Example: Create a National Energy Efficiency Agency.

Aspects Related to Implementation –Implementing, Monitoring and Updatingthe National Strategy and Action PlanScientific and Technological Requirements:Physical resources or technological processes required.

Example: Knowledge of and access to energy effi-ciency technologies (e.g. improved fireplaces).

Responsibilities and Human Resources:Organizations responsible for implementing theaction, partner organizations and human resources(jobs) required.

Example: Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Forests,Ministry of the Environment, Association of WoodProducers, 3 persons/year.

$ 1 Year, 5 Years, 10 Years:Financial resources required.

Example: $50,000 per year.

Expected Results:Spin-offs arising from the successful implementa-tion of the action.

Example: A decrease in fuelwood consumption willhelp protect forests from deforestation and reducedesertification.

Indicators –Quantifiable measuring tools. (State, pressure, res-ponse or performance indicators)

Example: Per capita consumption of fuelwood or thequantity of substituted fuelwood.

17


18

INTEGRATING THE VARIOUS THEMATIC AREAS OF THE CONVENTIONON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY INTO THE PLANNING MATRIX

When preparing a national strategy, planners must ensure that the various articles of the Conventionon Biological Diversity and the thematic areas formulated by the Conference of the Parties are takeninto account. The following table establishes a connection between the thematic areas of the

Conference of the Parties and the planning matrix themes. Certain thematic areas concern only one matrixtheme (protected areas, agrobiodiversity, sustainable tourism), others focus on one theme, although notexclusively so (incentive measures, legal issues, impact assessment, capacity building, funding sources,synergy with other conventions); most, however, refer to a number of planning matrix themes. Table 10illustrates the relationship between the various articles of the Convention and the planning matrix themes.

Thematic Areas Formulatedby the Conference of the Parties Planning Matrix Themes That May Incorporateto the Convention on Biological Diversity These Thematic Areas (See Table 2)Access and Benefit Sharing 2,3,4,5,7,12,13,14Protected Areas 2Biosafety 7,11Criteria and Indicators All ThemesAgrobiodiversity 5Forest Biodiversity 4,3,2,9Mountain Biodiversity 4,3,2,9Marine and Coastal Biodiversity 3,2,5,9Inland Water Ecosystems 9,3,2,4,5Dryland Ecosystems 5,3,2,4Species and Taxonomy 2,3,4,5Impact Assessment 12Incentive Measures 12Biodiversity Legal Issues 13Capacity Building 13Traditional Knowledge All ThemesBiodiversity Funding Sources 12Synergy with Rio Conventionsand Other Biodiversity Conventions 13Sustainable Tourism 7Sustainable Use of Biodiversity 3,4,5,7


DETAILED PRESENTATION AND EXAMPLESOF THE USE OF PLANNING MATRIX THEMES

In order to clearly understand the scope and contentof the 15 planning matrix themes, they are presen-ted in the following pages using information fromnational strategies designed on the basis of this fra-mework. The following considerations are addressed:

Typical Sector Activities: The sector activities andsubjects covered by each integrating theme are lis-ted so as to clearly explain what each theme encom-passes. The seven case studies presented in section 4(tables 3 to 9) show which themes or subthemeswere given priority by planning teams.

Bases for Action – Pressures and Impacts:Pressures and impacts are usually detailed in mono-graphs describing biological diversity, the state of acountry’s biological resources, laws, policies, orga-nizations, programs, budgets and human resourcesdevoted to biodiversity at a national level. Theexamples given here illustrate the impact of sectoractivities on biodiversity. In national strategy docu-ments, such information often comes under the hea-ding “Issues ” or “Status Report”.

Objectives or Directions – Examples: This listcontains the objectives or practical and operationaldirections which will serve as the foundation for theelaboration of an action plan for conservation, thesustainable use of biodiversity resources and the justand equitable sharing of benefits arising from theuse of genetic resources, in response to the problemsoutlined under the previous heading.

Actions – Examples: Actions underway or plannedactions related to conservation, the sustainable useof biodiversity and the equitable sharing of its bene-fits are described by specifying the public or privateorganizations that will be directly entrusted withtheir implementation as well as the necessary or pro-posed means, resources and time frames. Theexamples are taken or adapted from existing natio-nal strategies.

Aspects Related to Implementation – Partners: Inorder to call upon and make all players aware of theirresponsibilities, a number of possible partners arelisted.

Indicators – Examples: Indicators must be selec-ted and monitored in order to assess the perfor-mance of each of the actions outlined in the actionplan and, eventually, that of all aspects of the themein question.

Note that biodiversity strategies and action plans arecontinually evolving and may be improved in thecourse of their implementation.

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This theme deals with activities related to themultiple sources of energy available, namely,wood, agricultural residues, petroleum products,

hydroelectricity, hydro energy, wind energy, solarenergy and nuclear energy. These forms of energy areused to satisfy the needs of populations (for food,heat, transport, etc.) or for industrial purposes.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Energy resources development.• Energy production and transportation.• Energy use, etc.

BASES FOR ACTION –PRESSURES AND IMPACTS

• Energy resources development (drilling, etc.),energy production and transportation (construc-tion of dams, dikes, transmission lines, etc.) maydegrade ecosystems.

• The use of fossil fuels is responsible, on a globalscale, for climatic warming, urban smog anddepletion of the ozone layer.

• Unplanned harvesting of fuelwood results indeforestation.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Promote technologies that contribute to energy

conservation.• Promote the environmentally sound develop-

ment of energy resources.• Promote renewable energy resources.• Promote the use of energy forms other than

wood in arid zones.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Develop a national strategy for energy safety

and efficiency.• Develop a guide to good practices for energy

development, production and transportation.• Implement a national coal and natural gas deve-

lopment program.• Implement an energy conservation information

campaign.• Develop blueprints for fuelwood supply.

ASPECTS RELATED TO IMPLEMENTATION –PARTNERS

• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor energy, water, the environment, etc.

• Local communities.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Release rate of greenhouse gases.• Assessment of energy efficiency.• Per capita consumption of fuelwood.• Quantity of substituted fuelwood.

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E N E R G YR E S O U R C E S

Theme 1

This theme concerns (1.) the in-situ conservationof biological diversity, particularly by the crea-tion of protected areas (national parks, wildlife

areas, forest reserve, etc.) and the conservation ofrare, threatened or vulnerable species and ecosys-tems, and (2.) the ex-situ conservation of biologicaldiversity in zoos, botanical gardens, arboretums, seedbanks, seed production centres, etc. This theme alsodeals with the conservation of exceptional land-scapes, geological formations or water bodies.

1. IN-SITU CONSERVATION

Typical Sector Activities• Establishment and development of a network of

protected areas that is representative of biolo-gical diversity.

• Management of protected areas.• Maintenance or recovery of rare, threatened or

vulnerable faunal and floral species.• Conservation, outside protected areas, of non-

exploited species.

Bases for Action – Pressures and Impacts • Networks of protected areas are not represen-

tative of the diversity of national ecosystems.• The inadequacy of financial, physical and human

resources allocated to protected areas leads togaps in their management, namely, a lack ofblueprints and management plans, insufficientmonitoring of wild populations of fauna andflora, etc.

• Local communities are not aware of the roleprotected areas play in biodiversity conserva-tion. Lack of awareness combined with povertyin communities may result in encroachment intoprotected areas for purposes such as agriculture,grazing, logging, poaching, etc.

• Faunal or floral species are rare, threatened, vul-nerable or likely to be designated as such dueto the degradation of natural environments,overexploitation, poaching, etc.

• Insufficient data are available on species at riskand their exact status is difficult to determine.

• Many human activities, such as agriculture, live-stock production, logging, water level manage-ment, urbanization, etc., result in the degrada-tion, fragmentation or disappearance of wildlifehabitats outside protected areas.

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C O N S E R V A T I O NO F N A T U R A L R E S O U R C E S

Theme 2

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Conservation of Natural Resources

Objectives or Directions – Examples• Increase the number of protected areas to

improve the representativeness of the nationalnetwork.

• Maintain and develop the existing network ofprotected areas.

• Increase knowledge regarding the situation ofspecies at risk.

• Maintain or restore rare or threatened animaland plant species.

• Crack down on the illegal trade of threatenedspecies and their products.

Actions – Examples• Establish protected areas to fill gaps in the pro-

tected areas network.• Develop blueprints and management plans for

protected areas.• Implement a program for the inventory and

monitoring of biological resources in protectedareas.

• Develop a transboundary management strategyfor protected areas.

• Develop a management policy for protectedareas, thereby encouraging community involve-ment.

• Implement a national program to protect threa-tened fauna and flora which comprises theinventory and monitoring of populations, thepreparation and implementation of rehabilita-tion plans, etc.

• Undertake a project to reintroduce a given spe-cies.

• Implement a program to restore wildlife habi-tats.

Aspects Related to Implementation –Partners

• Ministries, organizations or agencies responsiblefor the environment, protected areas, fauna,flora, etc.

• Environmental organizations and local commu-nities.

• Research scientists interested in these fields.

Indicators – Examples• Number of hectares or percentage of territory

devoted to protected areas.• Number of protected areas with a management

plan.• Proportion of protected floral or faunal species

versus the number of species on the list of spe-cies at risk.

• Number of recovery plans implemented.• Number of species on the list of threatened spe-

cies found in protected areas.

2. EX-SITU CONSERVATION

Typical Sector Activities• Establishment, development and management

of ex-situ conservation sites (zoos, botanicalgardens, arboretums, seed banks, seed produc-tion centres, etc.).

Bases for Action – Pressures and Impacts • Species used for cultivated farm crops are threa-

tened by drought, changes in flood patterns,poor farming and pastoral practices, the intro-duction of new varieties of crops, etc.

• The diversity of races and varieties of livestockadapted to local conditions is decreasing.

• The contribution of botanical gardens and zoosto biodiversity conservation is often underesti-mated or underdeveloped.

• Ex-situ conservation sites are faced with inade-quate facilities, insufficient monitoring, anddeficiencies in human, financial and physicalresources.

Objectives or Directions – Examples• Protect races and varieties used to supply food

and in agriculture by developing collections toconserve genetic material (gene and seed banks).

• Promote research and training activities relatedto ex-situ conservation.

Actions – Examples• Inventory and typify the different races and

varieties of livestock and crops.• Introduce a legislation to regulate the produc-

tion, multiplication and distribution of impro-ved seeds.

• Create a seed bank.• Adopt a master plan for the development of

botanical gardens and zoos.

Aspects Related to Implementation –Partners

• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor the environment, agriculture, livestock pro-duction, research and technology, etc.

• Environmental groups and local communities.• Research scientists interested in environment,

agriculture, livestock production, etc.

Indicators – Examples• Number of species and varieties (animal or

plant) conserved in the national seed bank.• Number of species in aquariums, zoos or bota-

nical gardens targeted by a recovery plan.


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This theme refers to the knowledge and manage-ment of wildlife (aquatic, terrestrial and winged).Species harvested for sporting and commercial

purposes, or which are victims of poaching, requirepriority actions.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Knowledge of animal species exploited in their

habitats.• Management of wildlife exploited through hun-

ting, trapping, sport- and commercial fishing.


• Knowledge of numerous animal species andtheir habitats is incomplete.

• Many wildlife species whose exploitation is per-mitted are threatened by overexploitation dueto excessive hunting, fishing or trapping.Controlling harvesting (licences, quotas, exploi-tation periods, equipment, etc.) proves difficultdue to staff shortages or inadequate interven-tion measures.

• Species are poached to such an extent that theirsurvival is threatened.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Promote wildlife exploitation methods that per-

petuate resources.• Improve knowledge about the state of animal

populations, their demographic trends, habitatsand degree of exploitation.

• Determine the current status of each wildlifespecies exploited and establish measures thatsupport sustainable use.

• Step up measures to reduce poaching.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Develop and implement a blueprint for research

on wildlife and wildlife habitats.• Establish mechanisms for the management of

exploited wildlife (quotas, exploitation periods,etc.) and monitor species harvesting at regularintervals.

• Create a data bank and atlas on wildlife.


• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor wildlife and wildlife exploitation.

• Hunters’ and fishermen’s associations.• Local communities.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Number of exploited species targeted by a popu-

lation-monitoring program.• Harvesting rate of wildlife exploited and obser-

vance of quotas.• Number of poaching-related offences.

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D E V E L O P M E N TO F W I L D L I F E R E S O U R C E S

Theme 3

This theme concerns activities related to ligneous(wood, leaves, bark, fruits, roots, etc.) and non-ligneous (fungi, herbaceous plants, small fruits,

etc.) resources. These resources are exploited forpapermaking, timber production, food, handicraftobjects, housing construction or the manufacture ofmats, medicines, cosmetics, etc.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Logging.• Forest management and reforestation.• Gathering of leaves, fruits, fungi, medicinal plants.• Production of pulp, paper, paperboard, etc.


• Knowledge of ligneous species and forest eco-systems is often incomplete.

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D E V E L O P M E N TO F F O R E S T R E S O U R C E S

Theme 4

• Logging has many impacts, including pollutionof waterways, modification of water regimebalance, compaction and decreased fertility ofsoils, degradation or fragmentation of wildlifehabitats, degradation of landscape quality.

• Excessive harvesting and gathering for com-mercial purposes endangers certain species ofgreat value (medicinal, nutritional, etc.).

• Drought, desertification and bushfires are natu-ral threats to forests.

• Pulp- and paper-manufacturing processes gene-rate many types of water and air pollution.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Improve knowledge about the state of ligneous

and non-ligneous resources and the extent oftheir exploitation.

• Promote measures that support the rational andsustainable exploitation of ligneous and non-ligneous resources.

• Improve exchanges of information, expertise andknow-how in the field of ligneous resourcesmanagement.

• Promote environmentally sound pulp- andpaper-manufacturing processes.

Development of Forest Resources

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Identify forest resources, determine deforesta-

tion and regeneration rates and monitor thestate of forest ecosystems.

• Develop a national reforestation program andpromote the natural regeneration of degradedsites.

• Implement forest resources managementmethods based on annual reforestation and har-vesting rates.

• Develop forest exploitation methods that do notthreaten water and wildlife resources.


• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor ligneous and non-ligneous resources, theenvironment, water, agriculture, livestock pro-duction, etc.

• Industrialists and forestry workers.• Associations and organizations involved in the

harvesting of non-ligneous products (fungi, wildfruits, etc.).

• Woodlot owners.• Local communities.

Indicators – Examples• Harvesting rates of the allowable cut.• Reforestation rates.• Quantity of non-ligneous products produced

locally and sold on the market.

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D E V E L O P M E N TO F A G R I C U L T U R A L R E S O U R C E S

Theme 5

In order to feed himself, man acts on nature andshapes ecosystems conducive to livestock produc-tion or plant growth. This theme concerns all types

of crops and livestock production connected withmeeting the food needs of collectivities.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Grain crops.• Vegetable crops.• Land irrigation.• Pastoralism.• Livestock production.• Aquaculture.• Processing of agricultural and animal products;

etc.


• Agriculture causes a reduction in soil quality(organic matter and mineral deficiencies,decreased fertility, increases in acidity levels),susceptibility to water and wind erosion, conta-mination of waterways or groundwater (use offertilizers, organic matter, pesticides), etc.

• Livestock production gives rise to significantpressures due to localized overgrazing, accessto water points, etc.

• Agriculture and livestock production are oftenpoorly integrated and conflicts frequently existbetween these uses of biodiversity.

• Uncontrolled growth of livestock may lead todegradation of pastoral lands.

• Techniques used to process agricultural productsmay generate pollution that adversely affectsecosystems.

• Protection of crops and livestock from pestssometimes impacts non-target species.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Promote the adoption of practices that support

the sustainable development of livestock pro-duction and agriculture.

• Reduce the impact of agricultural activities andlivestock production on wild species and naturalenvironments.

• Effectively integrate the management of pasto-ralism and agriculture.

• Promote the adoption of non-polluting tech-niques for processing agricultural resources.

• Ensure that the agricultural land base is protec-ted from urban encroachment.

Development of Agricultural Resources

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Implement a blight control program.• Work towards the integration of agriculture/live-

stock production/forest by increasing and impro-ving the use of agricultural by-products in cattlefodder.

• Implement a decentralized financing system forthe livestock production sector and supportbreeders’ associations.

• Develop a management plan for the pastoralland base that supports the preservation of pas-toral ecosystems, a better distribution of waterpoints and their management.

• Support fishfarming development cooperatives.• Develop a network of windbreaks and green cor-

ridors in agricultural environments.• Implement a program to protect waterways in

agricultural environments.


• Ministries, agencies or companies responsiblefor the management of agriculture, livestockproduction, the environment, water, etc.

• Agricultural producers’ associations and agri-cultural cooperatives.

• Breeders’ associations.• Private producers.• Local communities.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Percentage of land devoted to agriculture.• Animal density on the agricultural land base.• Quantity of pesticides used per unit of cultiva-

ted land.

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D E V E L O P M E N TO F M I N E R A L R E S O U R C E S

Theme 6

While mineral resources are not part of theliving world, their exploitation and proces-sing have repercussions on biological diver-

sity. It must also be noted that the exploitation ofcoal, natural gas, crude oil and uranium reservescould significantly reduce fuelwood consumption indesert countries.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Mining resources extractive activities.• Metallurgical processing of mining resources.• Inorganic chemistry.• Restoration of mining sites; etc.


• Mining exploitation and extraction processesresult in contamination due to the discharge ofexploitation waste or the use of toxic chemicals,overtapping of water resources, etc.

• The establishment of mining sites involvesextensive destruction of vegetation cover toallow access to resources or to satisfyemployees’ energy and housing needs.

• When extractive activities have been comple-ted, mining sites are not always rehabilitated.

• Old metallurgical and steel processes are majorpollutants.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Promote ecologically sustainable mining exploi-

tation practices.• Promote the restoration of mining sites upon

completion of exploitation activities.• Promote the use of ecologically sound metal-

lurgical and steel processes.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Develop environmentally sound guides to good

practices for mining development and exploita-tion.

• Create reforestation areas around quarries andmines.

MRN

Development of Mineral Resources

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• Promote the recycling of mining waste.• Introduce incentive measures for the restoration

of mining sites upon completion of exploitationactivities.


• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor the management of mines, energy, water, theenvironment, etc.

• Mining companies and mining workers.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Total area of sites restored.• Percentage of mineral substances salvaged and

recycled from rejects and waste.

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I N D U S T R I A L D E V E L O P M E N TO F T E C H N O L O G Y A N D S E R V I C E S

Theme 7

This theme covers technological processes andservices used for industrial purposes (with theexception of those dealt with under more speci-

fic themes, for example processes associated withthe development of energy, forest, agricultural, mine-ral resources, etc.).

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Biotechnologies (applications that use genetic

engineering and diverse biological techniques toincrease yields and improve the efficiency ofproducts used in the fields of agriculture, agri-food, livestock production, animal health, depol-lution, etc.) and biosafety (biotechnological riskprevention).

• Aeronautics.• Petrochemistry.• Plastics processing.• Computer technology.• Tourism.• Regular control measures for harmful species

(pests, parasites); etc.


• Any species that is genetically modified is analien species, even in its original ecosystem; theintroduction of alien species or geneticallymodified organisms may give rise to imbalancesin the functioning of ecosystems.

• Industrial processes use a huge quantity ofresources and may contaminate ecosystemsthrough the discharge of wastes or pollutants.

• Tourist activities and infrastructures result in thedegradation of natural environments of greatecological value.

Industrial Development of Technology and Services

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OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Promote the adoption of a national biosafety

strategy.• Promote and support research to mitigate the

impacts of pollution caused by industrial pro-cesses.

• Promote ecologically sustainable types of tou-rism, including ecotourism.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Develop institutional biotechnology and biosa-

fety capacities (in vitro culture laboratories, trai-ning, professional development, etc.).

• Implement a research program to mitigate theimpacts of a given industrial process, and allo-cate it the necessary financial support.

• Adopt a tourist code that takes the environmentinto account.


• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor industry, water, the environment, higher edu-cation, research and technology.

• Industrial developers, tourism agencies.• Local communities.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Number of genetically modified species that are

not targeted by measures in the national biosa-fety strategy.

• Quantity of pollutants discharged by industriesfrom a given sector.

• Number of companies certified in conformitywith environmental requirements.

• Number of tourist companies with an environ-mental code of ethics.

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D E V E L O P M E N T O F T H E U R B A NA N D R U R A L E N V I R O N M E N T

Theme 8

This theme refers to problems that are typical ofbuilt environments and to demography, factorsthat are a burden on biological resources firstly

due to the space occupied but also by virtue of thequantity of natural resources required to satisfy indi-vidual and collective needs.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Land use planning.• Urban sprawl.• Demography.• Waste management.• Transport; etc.


• Accelerated urbanization has various impacts onurban centres and villages, including reducedaccess to potable water, poorer air quality, lackof management measures for solid waste, foul-and rainwater, etc.

• Expansion of the urban and rural environmentusually has an adverse effect on nearby naturalenvironments.

• Demographic growth and migratory movementsexert considerable pressures on naturalresources, exceeding the environment’s carryingcapacity.

• Modes of transportation consume large quanti-ties of fossil fuels and are responsible for theemission of numerous air pollutants.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Adopt an integrated land use planning approach

that takes the environment’s carrying capacityinto account.

• Control irresponsible urbanization.• Promote the creation of a network of green

spaces in urban centres and villages.• Prevent the migration of rural populations.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Develop and implement regional and subregio-

nal land development plans.• Improve the refuse collection and treatment sys-

tem.

Development of the Urban and Rural Environment

• Introduce incentive measures to promote theuse of mass transit and decrease the use of indi-vidual means of transport in urban centres.

• Create green spaces in urban centres and vil-lages.


• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor the management of facilities, infrastructures,land use planning, finance, planning, publichealth, etc.

• Municipal and rural entities.• Local communities.• Social or environmental organizations.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Number of land development plans implemen-

ted.• Rate of sprawl of urban centres.• Urban population growth rate.• Waste collection rate.• Foulwater treatment rate.• Total area of green spaces in the urban environ-

ment.

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A T M O S P H E R I CA N D A Q U A T I C B A S I N S

Theme 9

This theme refers to atmospheric and waterresources which, in their respective basins, areindicative of environmental pressures associated

with the conservation and use of biodiversity in aterritory.

Indeed, most human populations and the activitiesdescribed under the eight previous themes areconcentrated in the watersheds of large rivers andgreat lakes. Analysing the state of a major waterwayand the pressures it is subject to may therefore beuseful in an initial assessment of overall biodiversitystatus. The state of the waterway reflects the resultsof initiatives undertaken in its watershed and conse-quently may be regarded as a global indicator of thequality of the living environment and the state ofbiodiversity.

Similarly, the air quality in a given environment mayreflect the intensity of human activities in a terri-tory and be an indicator of their impact on theatmospheric environment.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Air quality monitoring.• Climate change monitoring.• Use of water resources (coastal areas, inland

waters, wetlands, etc.) to meet human needs(potable water, industrial processes, agricultu-ral production, etc.).

• Water quality monitoring.


• Atmospheric waste, chiefly arising from the bur-ning of hydrocarbons and wood, reduces airquality and results in the formation of smog andacid rain, which adversely affect wildlife speciesand ecosystems.

• Climatic warming, caused by an increase ingreenhouse gases, has major impacts on naturalecosystems.

• Depletion of the ozone layer leads to an increasein ultraviolet rays, which cause damage to thegenetic integrity of living organisms.

• Water bodies are polluted by toxic substances,bacteriological contamination, suspended par-ticulates and the use of nutritional substances.

Atmospheric and Aquatic Basins

• Surface and groundwater resources are overex-ploited, which has an adverse effect on the inte-grity of aquatic environments and wetlands.

• Human and animal pressures in the area aroundwater points result in overcutting of plants thatprotect bodies of water from silting up, leadingto bank erosion.

• Wetlands are destroyed by embankmentconstruction.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Preserve air quality by fighting all forms of pol-

lution.• Improve knowledge of water resources and

aquatic ecosystems.• Satisfy the water needs of populations and live-

stock.• Preserve water quality by fighting all forms of

pollution and protecting wetlands, places ofnatural water purification.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Monitor air quality in urban areas.• Monitor the bacteriological and physicochemi-

cal quality of water.• Foster consensus-building between stakeholders

to ensure the integrated management of thediverse uses of aquatic environments and waterresources (fishing, livestock production, agricul-ture, ecosystem conservation, etc.).

• Establish a vegetation belt around wetlands toprevent their silting up.


• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor the management of the environment, water,transport, agriculture, etc.

• Users of water resources such as agriculturalcooperatives, breeders’ associations, agro-indus-tries, etc.

• Local communities and NGOs.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• NOx concentration in the air.• Per capita CO2 emissions.• Percentage of the population living in areas that

do not comply with air quality standards.• Total (or per capita) emissions of greenhouse

gases.• Index of the bacteriological and physicochemi-

cal quality of waterways.• Percentage of the population that does not have

access to drinking water that complies withstandards in effect.

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T E R R I T O R I E S U N D E RS P E C I A L J U R I S D I C T I O N

Theme 10

Responsibility with respect to biodiversity may beshared differently between national governmentsand other bodies, for example those governing

Aboriginal territories. The latter must be invited andurged by national governments to develop their ownimplementation tools of the Convention on BiologicalDiversity, as proposed under this theme.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Management of Aboriginal territories.• Management of overseas principalities, minis-

tries and territories; etc.


• Biodiversity in territories under special jurisdic-tion is potentially subject to the same risks asso-ciated with human activities as the rest of thecountry: exploitation of species and naturalenvironments, degradation of natural habitats,pollution, etc. Should a State include such ter-ritories, it would be useful to compile under thisheading all information concerning problemsrelated to conservation and the use and sharing

of benefits arising from the exploitation of theterritory’s biodiversity.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS• Objectives or directions are the same as those

set out under the other integrating themes inthe action plan framework.

ACTIONS• Actions are the same as those set out under the

other integrating themes in the framework.


• Representatives of populations and organiza-tions (decision makers, private sector, environ-mental groups, etc.) living in these territoriesmust be encouraged, using appropriate means,to participate in all stages of the planning andimplementation of the biodiversity strategy andaction plan.

INDICATORS• Indicators are the same as those set out under

the other integrating themes in the framework.

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E N V I R O N M E N T A LA N D C I V I L E M E R G E N C I E S

Theme 11

This theme refers to all activities concerned with theprevention and management of natural disastersand technological accidents, as well as actions,

where necessary, to restore sites struck by such a dis-turbance. Planners of emergency responses and res-ponse team members will thereby ensure that biodi-versity is protected, along with people and property.

Natural disasters include droughts, floods, bushfires,livestock epidemics, insect plagues, earthquakes,wind- and icestorms, cyclones, tornadoes, etc. Thistheme also deals with the control of very invasive pestspecies, particularly when major action is required.

Technological disasters include oil spills in coastalareas, spills of chemicals during road or rail acci-dents, etc. Armed conflicts also number amonghuman-induced disasters that may result in irreco-verable loss of biodiversity.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Prediction and prevention of disasters.• Planning and coordination of responses to

disasters.• Restoration, as appropriate, of sites struck by a

disaster.• Control of invasive pest species; etc.


• Droughts and floods result in the degradationand loss of natural resources, which in turn leadto the shift of populations and livestock to otherterritories, increasing pressures in these areas.

• Bushfires and insect plagues may destroy thou-sands of hectares of forest or pasturelandannually.

• Spills of petroleum products or other chemicalsmay result in the contamination of the aquaticenvironment, death of fauna and flora, habitatdegradation, etc.

• Invasive species replace native species andcreate imbalances in ecosystems.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Provide maximum protection for protected

areas, fragile and vulnerable ecosystems, ex-situconservation sites and the main agricultural,pastoral and forestry production areas duringenvironmental or civil emergencies.

• Promote international cooperation in the fieldof environmental emergency prediction.

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ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Develop emergency response plans that take

biodiversity into account for protected areas,fragile and vulnerable ecosystems, ex-situconservation sites and the main agricultural,pastoral and forestry production areas.

• Inform emergency response teams (police, army,civil defence, etc.) of the contingency plansdeveloped.

• Improve coordination of activities related toenvironmental emergencies by creating a bankof pertinent data.

• Study methods for the control of invasive spe-cies that threaten ecosystems.


• Ministries, companies and agencies responsiblefor public safety, water, the environment, agri-culture, livestock production, etc.

• The army, police, civil defence.• The media.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Number of contingency plans developed.• Total area of territory affected by natural disas-

ters.


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E C O - C I V I S MTheme 12

The conservation and sustainable use of biodiver-sity cannot become a reality without the activeparticipation of local communities, socioprofes-

sional associations, NGOs, representatives from theprivate sector, etc. A theme is therefore devoted toactivities that may prompt as many partners as pos-sible to become involved in the attainment of theobjectives set out in strategies and action plans.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Participation in activities related to the planning

and implementation of biodiversity strategiesand action plans.

• Encouragement and support for local initiativesthat contribute to the conservation and sustai-nable use of biological diversity; etc.


• The design and implementation stages of biodi-versity strategies and action plans often fail tosufficiently involve local communities, which areholders of traditional knowledge and practicesessential to the success of actions undertakenin the territory.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Encourage all players to participate in planning

and implementing the biodiversity strategy andaction plan.

• Promote the creation of associations and NGOsthat will participate in biodiversity management(village groups, breeders’ groups, fishermen’sassociations, forestry associations, etc.).

• Give local communities more responsibilities forand rights over their natural resources and sup-port them in the elaboration and implementa-tion of measures to prevent the degradation ofbiodiversity resources.

• Promote private sector involvement in the fieldof the conservation and sustainable use of bio-logical diversity.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Implement a support program for national NGOs

and local associations.• Oversee pilot programs for the management of

biodiversity resources by NGOs and local asso-ciations (for example, the management of areserved forest by a local forestry association).

• Publicize successful partnerships with the pri-vate sector.

• Adopt provisions (incentives, tax breaks, socialrecognition, etc.) to encourage individuals andgroups to contribute to biodiversity conservation.

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• Local communities, NGOs, cooperatives,women’s associations, youth associations, scien-tists’ associations, artists’ associations, etc.

• The private sector (including banks), labourorganizations, boards of trade and professionalbodies.

• Ministries, agencies or companies responsiblefor development, the environment, etc., and fun-ding agencies.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Effective participation of NGO representatives

in the planning stages of the national biodiver-sity strategy.

• Number of associations independently mana-ging biodiversity resources.

• Financial assistance for biodiversity protectionand development.


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S O C I E T A LV A L U E S

Theme 13

This theme refers to awareness-raising, educatio-nal and training activities, which are an ideal fra-mework in which to bring about a change in

attitude in favour of the conservation and sustai-nable use of biodiversity. Pupils and students at alllevels, farm and forestry officers and operators,fishermen, members of NGOs and socioprofessionalorganizations, landowners and the general popula-tion are targeted by these activities.

This theme also concerns the legal and institutionalframework, the laws and regulations governing theuse of natural resources and protection of the envi-ronment. The integration of environmental concernsinto development activities and social programs isalso covered by this theme.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Information, public awareness, education, and

training.• Research• Adoption and revision of laws and regulations

(legal and institutional framework).• Environmental impact studies.• International cooperation and the implementa-

tion of the various conventions on biodiversity.


• Few public awareness programs target localcommunities; yet many of the latter still believethat natural resources are unlimited.

• Educational programs overlook or deal superfi-cially with biodiversity issues.

• Employees are not given adequate training toupgrade their practical knowledge of naturalresources management practices.

• Legislation in effect in the field of the environ-ment and natural resources management issometimes exceeded by current realities andfails to take into account concern for theconservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.

• The lack of specific guidelines for environmentalassessments means that not all developmentoptions and environmental consequences areexamined in the project design stage.

• Lack of collaboration or the refusal to partici-pate in the implementation of agreements, atinternational and national levels, compromisesthe protection of shared biological resources.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Adopt a national policy for education, public

awareness and training on the importance ofbiological diversity and the need to conserve anduse it in a sustainable manner.

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• Improve the legal framework (laws and regula-tions) so as to take biodiversity into account.

• Assist international efforts to protect and deve-lop biodiversity.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Organize people-oriented activities (workshops,

fairs, exhibitions, etc.) to educate local commu-nities and raise their awareness of the impor-tance of biological diversity.

• Adapt school, university and technical curriculaso as to better integrate concern for the conser-vation and the sustainable use of biologicaldiversity.

• Offer educators responsible for educational pro-grams and training specialization courses in bio-diversity.

• Develop specific guidelines for environmentalassessments.

• Adopt legal measures that support the conser-vation of biological diversity and the sustainableuse of biological resources.


• Ministries, agencies or companies responsiblefor education, justice, the environment, etc.

• Educator and trainer networks.• Educational and technical training institutions.• NGOs and local associations.• The private sector, labour organizations and

boards of trade.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Number of public awareness or training work-

shops held and the number of workshop parti-cipants.

• Number of users of information products (bro-chures, magazines, etc.) devoted to biodiversity.

• Number of visitors to sites dedicated to biodi-versity (national parks, botanical gardens, zoos,arboretums, etc.).

• Number or percentage of development projectssubjected to environmental assessments.


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Q U A L I T YO F L I F E

Theme 14

The quality of life of collectivities is the ultimategoal of sustainable development. This theme pro-vides an integrated portrait of the socioeconomic

situation of populations targeted by a biodiversitystrategy (GNP, unemployment rate, economic growth,life expectancy, health care, etc.). These carefullyselected indicators denote a population’s capacity touse available and abundant natural resources forfood, income generation, etc. They reflect both theirliving conditions and standard of living.

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Ensuring environmental, economic and social

security.• Health promotion.• Distribution of wealth; etc.


• The unequal distribution of wealth and ensuingpoverty result in rural migration and exert consi-derable pressure on resources around cities.

• The disparity between rich and poor is a sourceof social tensions and conflicts that may directlyimpact the quality of the natural environment.

• The failure to integrate environmental aspectsinto public accounts results in overexploitationof resources.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Develop and implement anti-poverty programs

that address food security, income-generatingactivities, etc.

• Promote health.

• Adopt measures that promote the equitable dis-tribution of wealth.

• Integrate environmental aspects into publicaccounts.

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Introduce a health program for all citizens.• Introduce a social security or guaranteed mini-

mum income scheme.


• Ministries, companies or agencies responsiblefor development planning, finance, health, etc.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• United Nations Quality of Life Index.• Number of jobs associated with the exploitation

(primary and secondary) of biological resources.• Production value associated with the exploita-

tion (primary and secondary) of biologicalresources.

• Percentage of the population that has access tohealth care.

• Average per capita income.

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S P I R I T U A LA N D R E L I G I O U S V A L U E S

Theme 15

By virtue of their past and present influence on rela-tions between local populations and biodiversityresources, spiritual and religious values are a

dimension that cannot be ignored when it comes topreparing a strategy for the conservation and sustai-nable use of biodiversity. Myths, sacred chants, stories,proverbs, rites, cultural taboos and religious beliefsreflect a genuine concern for protection of the envi-ronment and contribute indirectly to biodiversityconservation. Indeed, all the great religions include ritesand ceremonies that worship creation (ecosystems,species, etc.), thereby contributing to the protection ofspecies and natural environments (Ribaut, 1997).

TYPICAL SECTOR ACTIVITIES• Knowledge and practices of biodiversity

resources management related to spiritualvalues.

• Dissemination and practice of moral and spiritualvalues, religious precepts, cultural taboos; etc.


• Spiritual and religious values are not given suffi-cient consideration when developing biodiversitytools; they are disregarded and lack of recognitionand appreciation may even result in their loss.

• Environmental resources management andexploitation practices that run counter to reli-gious beliefs or teachings sometimes have anegative impact on biodiversity conservation.

OBJECTIVES OR DIRECTIONS – EXAMPLES• Take spiritual values into account in the deve-

lopment of tools for the conservation and sus-tainable use of biodiversity.

• Improve knowledge and appreciation of tradi-tional learning and know-how, cultural taboosand spiritual values that may contribute to theconservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.

• Facilitate the preservation of social and cultu-ral traditions that will support the handingdown, from generation to generation, of tradi-tional knowledge and practices that link spiri-tual values and the sustainable use of biologi-cal resources.

Spiritual and Religious Values

ACTIONS – EXAMPLES• Draw up an inventory of traditional knowledge

and practices related to spiritual values thatcontribute to the conservation and sustainableuse of biological biodiversity.

• Introduce a mechanism to disseminate conser-vation concepts related to spiritual or religiousvalues.


• Religious bodies, marabouts, shamans, ethicists,etc.

• Associations and communities of devotees.

INDICATORS – EXAMPLES• Number of pilgrims visiting holy places.• Number of sacred sites.

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Quebec and one of its administrative regions, aswell as four African countries and one Middle-Eastern country have, to date, used the plan-

ning approach proposed in the present paper andadapted it to develop their own national or regionalstrategies and action plans. In addition to Quebec,the territories in question are: the Saguenay–Lac-St-Jean administrative region, the DemocraticRepublic of Congo, the Republic of Niger, the IslamicRepublic of Mauritania, the Republic of Djibouti andthe Sultanate of Oman.

This section presents the themes covered in each ofthe strategies and demonstrates how easily the bio-diversity planning matrix can be adapted to the dis-tinctive characteristics of regions, provinces or coun-tries. Tables 3 to 9 illustrate how planning teamsadapted the matrix themes to their needs. For eachof the themes and subthemes selected, planningdocuments instance the sector’s concerns and issues(bases for action), strategic directions (objectives),and planned measures (actions). Aspects related toimplementation and indicators are generally descri-bed in the project sheets of national action plans.Planners are invited to consult these documentsdirectly to examine in greater detail how the methodwas used and adapted to the specific context.1

QUEBEC

Geographic and Ecological OverviewQuebec is the first territory in which the biodiversityplanning matrix was used. Quebec, which has apopulation of over 7.1 million and occupies an areaof 1,667,926 km2, is the largest of the Canadian pro-vinces. Climatic conditions range from a humidcontinental climate to polar conditions.

From north to south, Quebec comprises five biogeo-graphic zones: tundra, taiga, the spruce belt, the bal-sam fir belt and deciduous forest.

Freshwater and saltwater occupy equal proportionsof 10 percent each. Southern Quebec is characterizedby the drainage basin of the St. Lawrence, whichflows over a distance of more than 1,200 km andalone drains 40 percent of the total area of Quebec;it is also the outflow of the world’s largest freshwa-ter reserve, the Great Lakes. The St. Lawrence’s flu-vial, estuarine and marine environments have thegreatest biological diversity in Quebec.

Quebec is responsible for managing over 9,044 vas-cular and non-vascular plant species. It is also res-ponsible for the protection of 653 animal species,including 199 fish species, 21 species of amphibians,16 reptile species, 326 bird species, 91 species ofmammals, and 25,000 insect species.

Use of the Planning MatrixQuebec’s biodiversity strategy and action plan wereadopted in 1996. Table 3 shows the 11 themesQuebec selected and adapted from the 15 planningmatrix themes.

P L A N N I N G B I O D I V E R S I T Y S T R A T E G I E SA N D A C T I O N P L A N S : C A S E S T U D I E S

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1. The strategies of the four African countries may be consultedat: http://www.kbinirsnb.be/bch-cbd/Quebec’s strategy may be consulted at:http://www.menv.gouv.qc.ca/biodiversite/strateg/index.htm

The theme Nordic Environment is a concrete exampleof the adaptation of the theme devoted to territo-ries under special jurisdiction; in Quebec’s case, theterritories in question are located north of the 52°30’ parallel north and governed by two agreementssigned with Aboriginal nations.

Two themes were partially addressed by Quebec,namely, Education and Biotechnology, which dealwith some of the sector activities proposed underthe themes devoted to societal values and the indus-trial development of technology and services res-pectively.

Quebec formulated a new theme, Global Factors,which covers a number of different activities. First, itrefers to those aspects of Quebec’s biodiversity thatrequire an additional strategic effort in order toenhance understanding and management of biodi-versity; it led to the development of actions such asthe preparation of ecological inventories, the pro-

duction of regular reports, the improvement of databanks, the development of monitoring methods, etc.The theme Global Factors also encompasses the issueof demography, usually associated with the themeUrban Environment. Climate and air quality monito-ring is likewise among the sector activities addressedunder Global Factors. The theme Societal Values isalso partly dealt with under Global Factors, throughissues related to collaboration with other govern-ments and the economy.

While the theme Eco-civism was not addressed perse in the action plan, a number of measures werenonetheless recommended by those responsible forimplementing the action plan to encourage the par-ticipation of all Quebecers in the achievement of sta-ted objectives.

Given that a Canada-Quebec harmonization programwas initiated in 1988 to implement actions for theprotection, conservation and development of the St.


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TABLE 3Biodiversity Themes Selected by Quebec Compared with Planning Matrix Themes

Planning Matrix Themes Themes Selected by Quebec- Global FactorsEnergy Resources Energy ResourcesConservation of Natural Resources ConservationDevelopment of Wildlife Resources Wildlife ResourcesDevelopment of Forest Resources Forest ResourcesDevelopment of Agricultural Resources Agricultural ResourcesDevelopment of Mineral Resources Mining ResourcesIndustrial Developmentof Technology and Services BiotechnologyDevelopment of the Urbanand Rural Environment Urban EnvironmentAtmospheric and Aquatic Basins -Territories under Special Jurisdiction Nordic EnvironmentEnvironmental and Civil Emergencies Environmental EmergenciesEco-civism -Societal Values EducationQuality of Life -Spiritual and Religious Values -Total: 15 Themes Total: 12 Themes and Subthemes

Planning Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans: Case Studies

Lawrence, the theme Atmospheric and Aquatic Basinswas omitted. It was decided that joint Canada-Quebecactions from the St. Lawrence Agreement would notbe integrated into the biodiversity action plan.

Two other themes have not yet been integrated intobiodiversity tools in Quebec, namely, Quality of Lifeand, since it was not included in the action plan fra-mework when Quebec developed its strategy andaction plan, Spiritual and Religious Values.

Biodiversity Planning Progress ReportQuebec’s biodiversity strategy, which comprises 33broad objectives, was adopted in 1996 followingpublic consultation. The resultant action plan ismonitored annually and four reports have been filedto date. Monitoring of the progress of Quebec’s bio-diversity action plan for the period from April 1, 1998to March 31, 1999 showed that the number ofactions continues to increase, from 350 in the firstyear to 429 in 1997-1998, and to 444 in 1998-1999.Almost two-thirds of these actions are alreadyunderway or will be refined by the different partners,while the remaining third consists of new actions.Just over half of the actions are recurrent, that is,they will be realized over a number of years. Ninety-four of the ad hoc actions were completed duringthe first three years of implementation.

The number of governmental and non-governmentalpartners involved in implementing the strategy haslikewise continued to grow. The Quebec governmentalso encourages all Quebecers to participate in theeffort to safeguard biodiversity. Thus any regional ornational agency may contribute to annual reports bysending the secretariat responsible for monitoring adescription of the actions they have carried out.

The action plan was originally initiated for a periodof four years, from 1996 to 2000. The governmentwas, however, advised to continue monitoring fortwo additional years. Indeed, Quebec’s biodiversityaction plan still appears to be valid, given that it hasbeen updated, year after year, with numerous actionsadded and abandoned actions deleted. Furthermore,ministries, partners and the public are only just star-ting to become accustomed to this Quebec dynamic;it therefore seems desirable to consolidate the pro-gress achieved before undertaking a second majorbiodiversity effort.

The Interdepartmental Committee on SustainableDevelopment therefore has two more years before itmust undertake the elaboration of a new strategyand action plan for Quebec for 2002-2007. At thesame time, it will complete work in progress in orderto develop global indicators to measure the impactof government activities and those of the popula-tion, or even of neighbouring provinces or countrieson Quebec’s biodiversity. Quebec will thereby satisfyarticles 7 to 10 of the Convention, which require thatindicators for monitoring the state and trends of bio-logical diversity be established.

SAGUENAY–LAC-SAINT-JEAN

Geographic and Ecological OverviewSaguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean is one of Quebec’s17 administrative regions. It has a population ofover 286,000 and covers an area of 104,035 km2.Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean comprises two extensiveforest zones, namely, boreal forest and mixed forest(the latter being the transition zone between deci-duous forest, further south, and boreal forest).

Water covers approximately 10 percent of the regio-nal territory, which derives its name from Lac Saint-Jean and its main outflow, the Saguenay River, a tri-butary of the St. Lawrence. Lac Saint-Jean covers anarea of approximately 1,000 km2, making it the fifthlargest lake in Quebec. Almost 165 km long, theSaguenay receives the drainage of over 20 tributa-ries. The last 100 kilometres of the river form theSaguenay fjord, an environment rich in biodiversitywhere brackish water and marine species coexist. Theadministrative region’s territory corresponds to theterritory of the Saguenay River and Lac Saint-Jeanwatershed, as the watershed drains an area of over85,500 km2.

The region is believed to have 76 fish species, 304bird species, 63 species of mammals and an unspe-cified number of reptiles, amphibians and inverte-brates. The region’s plant biodiversity has not yetbeen precisely estimated.

Use of the Planning MatrixAs shown in table 4, the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jeanregion selected and adapted 10 themes from theplanning matrix, subdividing a number of them.

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Aluminium-related activities form the basis of anextremely important industry for the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, employing close to 30 percent ofthe manufacturing workforce. In view of this indus-try’s importance for the region and the environmen-tal consequences of related activities, the themeDevelopment of Mineral Resources was subdividedso as to devote a subtheme entirely to aluminium. Anumber of other themes were also broken down,giving Water and Air, Urbanization and Transport.

The theme Industrial Development of Technology andServices was devoted to hazardous material onaccount of concerns expressed at a regional levelwhen the action plan was developed regarding theexpansion of activities in the fields of storage and sal-vage of hazardous material. The theme Societal Values

was devoted to education. The theme Wildlife coversa wider range of sector activities than that providedfor in the planning matrix under Development ofWildlife Resources, since it also addresses issues rela-ted to the conservation of natural resources.

The integrating nature of the biodiversity planningmatrix, which allows for the inclusion of all activitiesthat have a potential impact on biodiversity, has madeit possible to respond to concerns regarded as impor-tant by the region’s population. Indeed, in 1996, tor-rential rains had a considerable impact on the envi-ronment, as well as bringing to light significant gapsregarding the integration of environmental conside-rations into the issue of public safety. The themeEnvironmental Emergencies thus allowed regional sta-keholders to study these issues and formulate actions


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TABLE 4Biodiversity Themes Selected by Saguenay–Lac-Saint-JeanCompared with Planning Matrix Themes

Themes SelectedPlanning Matrix Themes by Saguenay–Lac-Saint-JeanEnergy Resources EnergyConservation of Natural Resources -Development of Wildlife Resources WildlifeDevelopment of Forest Resources ForestryDevelopment of Agricultural Resources AgricultureDevelopment of Mineral Resources Mines

AluminiumIndustrial Developmentof Technology and Services Hazardous MaterialDevelopment of the Urbanand Rural Environment Urbanization

TransportAtmospheric and Aquatic Basins Air

WaterTerritories under Special Jurisdiction -Environmental and Civil Emergencies Environmental EmergenciesEco-civism -Societal Values EducationQuality of Life -Spiritual and Religious Values -Total: 15 Themes Total: 13 Themes and Subthemes


to remedy the repercussions of the 1996 flood on theone hand and, on the other, prevent emergencies andprepare adequate contingency plans for implementa-tion should a similar event ever occur again.

The theme Territories under Special Jurisdiction wasomitted as it has only limited application in theSaguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean regional territory.

Biodiversity Planning Progress ReportThe elaboration of the biodiversity strategy andaction plan was overseen by the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean Regional Council for the Environment.First, using the 13 themes as a starting point, anassessment of the region’s environmental status wasmade. Then, in 1999, an extensive public consulta-tion was initiated to allow regional stakeholders,including citizens, to review the reports and suggestpossible actions.

In response to the measures formulated during thisconsultation, the Council for the Environment adop-ted a program comprising 202 actions. At present,the Council for the Environment is producing a bookin order to publicize the salient facts of the reportsand action plan. The Council is also setting up astructure to monitor the action plan’s implementa-tion over the next five years.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO

The Democratic Republic of Congo occupies an areaof 2,344,860 km2, making it the third largest coun-try in Africa. Its population was estimated at 43.9million in 1995, with approximately 71 percent livingin rural areas. Congo’s economy is based on agricul-ture and mining.

The climate is typically equatorial in the northernpart of central Congo with rain (1,500 to 2,000 mm)throughout the year and humidity at saturationpoint. The remainder of the country has a tropicalclimate with a wet season from March to Novemberin the extreme north, and from October to May inthe central south. While the extreme south is alsolocated in the tropical region, its dry season lastsfrom April to October. Only one small region receivesnegligible rainfall (800 mm/year).

The climate is extremely favourable to vegetationgrowth and the Democratic Republic of Congo, inaddition to a well-developed agricultural sector, haslarge expanses of equatorial and tropical forest, andsavannahs (tree and grass).

The Democratic Republic of Congo has a very denseriver system, covering 3.5 per cent of the national ter-ritory. This system is characterized by the Congo Riverwhich cuts across the country from east to west andreceives the drainage of numerous tributaries. Thecountry is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, with a nar-row strip of coast approximately 50 km long.

The range of climates and habitats is reflected in therich diversity of flora and fauna, making theDemocratic Republic of Congo one of the countrieswith the greatest biological diversity. It has moretypes of primates than any other country in theworld and the second highest number of species. Thenumber of species of mammals is estimated at 482and fish at almost 1,000. The country has approxi-mately 1,086 bird species, 216 amphibian species,352 reptile species and over 10,000 plant species.

USE OF THE PLANNING MATRIX

Twelve of the planning matrix themes were selectedand adapted by the Democratic Republic of Congoin its national biodiversity strategy (see table 5).

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TABLE 5Biodiversity Themes Selected by the Democratic Republicof Congo Compared with Planning Matrix Themes

Themes and Subthemes SelectedPlanning Matrix Themes by the Democratic Republic of Congo

Knowledge Acquisition

Energy Resources Energy Resources

Conservation of Natural Resources Protected AreasVulnerable or Threatened Species and EcosystemsEx-Situ Conservation

Development of Wildlife Resources Wildlife Resources

Development of Forest Resources Forest Resources

Development of Agricultural Resources Agricultural Resources

Development of Mineral Resources Mining Resources

Industrial Developmentof Technology and Services Biotechnology

Biosafety

Development of the Urbanand Rural Environment Combating the Adverse Effects of Global Change

Atmospheric and Aquatic Basins -

Territories under Special Jurisdiction Aboriginal Groups

Environmental and Civil Emergencies Environmental Emergency Response Measures

Eco-civism Participation of Populations, Non-GovernmentalOrganizations and the Private SectorIncentive Measures

Societal Values Legal and Institutional FrameworkInternational CooperationEnvironmental AssessmentsInformation, Public Awareness,Education and TrainingEvaluation and Monitoring

Quality of Life -

Spiritual and Religious Values -

Total: 15 Themes Total: 21 Themes and Subthemes


Given that knowledge available on national ecosys-tems and biological resources appeared incompleteand sectoral when the strategy was elaborated, anew theme, Knowledge Acquisition, was formulated.Rather than stress this knowledge gap in each sector,national planners decided to introduce a new theme.

Several of the action plan framework themes were sub-divided. The themes Protected Areas, Vulnerable orThreatened Species and Ecosystems and Ex-SituConservation are actually subdivisions of the themedevoted to conservation; the themes IncentiveMeasures and Participation of Populations, Non-Governmental Organizations and the Private Sectorderive from the theme devoted to eco-civism; issuesrelated to societal values are covered under five themes:Legal and Institutional Framework, InternationalCooperation, Environmental Assessments, Information,Public Awareness, Education and Training, andEvaluation and Monitoring.

The development of technology and services is par-tially dealt with under the themes Biotechnology andBiosafety. Customs and cultural taboos, if not dealtwith separately, are addressed under the themeIncentive Measures.

A new theme, Combating the Adverse Effects ofGlobal Change, groups together a number of sectoractivities connected with the urban environment(demographic growth, urban development) and theatmospheric basin (reduction of greenhouse gases).

Biodiversity Planning Progress ReportThe strategy was developed by national experts andapproved by participants in a national seminar, inNovember 1997. It was then submitted to partici-pants in provincial workshops organized throughoutthe country for their appraisal. All social and profes-sional strata were represented at the workshops: far-mers, non-governmental organizations (includingchurches) working in various fields, research scien-tists, independent loggers, fishermen and hunters,customary chiefs, men and women, primary- andsecondary-level teachers, storekeepers and busi-nessmen, etc.

Workshop participants expressed their commitmentto working in favour of biodiversity through theirnumerous suggestions for actions that could beundertaken to achieve the objectives set forth in the

national strategy. Workshop participants also drewup guidelines for the strategy’s implementation.Proposals concerning the institutional framework,participation of the population, NGOs and the pri-vate sector together with a certain number of incen-tive measures were formulated and discussed.

The various propositions were harmonized and prio-rity actions selected for the country as a whole.Priority 1 actions in the national strategy form thebody of the national action plan, which covers a five-year period (1999-2003), at the end of which it willbe revised and updated. Priority 2 and 3 actions inthe national strategy will progressively be incorpo-rated into the national plan. The content of this firstplan consists of 17 projects. Some projects coverseveral priority 1 actions.

As an appendix to the national action plan, theaction plans of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s11 provinces were published in June 1999. Incontrast to the national action plan, where the prio-rity actions selected have a much wider area ofaction, the provincial action plans comprise localactivities related to each province’s specific pro-blems. Actions proposed by the provinces that werenot selected for the national action plan are includedin the provincial action plans.

REPUBLIC OF NIGER

Geographic and Ecological OverviewA landlocked country, with fairly uniform relief, theRepublic of Niger has a total area of 1,267,000 km2,75 percent of which is desert. The population ofNiger was estimated at 9.7 million in 1988, with 80percent living in rural areas. Most Nigerians are far-mers or breeders but may also be involved in othersecondary activities, such as handicraft productionor business. Consequently, they live predominantlyoff environmental resources and are organized intocommunities whose relationship with the land isstrongly marked by cultural phenomena.

Located in one of the sunniest and hottest regions onthe planet, Niger has a mostly dry climate, with signi-ficant ranges of temperature. Rainfall is less than 800mm throughout the country and even less than 100mm over almost half of the country. There are threeregimes: the arid Saharan regime, in the north, where160 mm of rain usually falls in under one monthannually, except in the desert where it very rarely

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rains; the transition Saharan-tropical regime, whichreceives between 75 and 160 mm of rainfall per year,with a certain regularity; the Sahelian regime in thesouth with 600 mm precipitation over three to fourmonths (June to September), and a dry and a wet sea-son.

Natural physiographic features include forests,savannahs, steppes, plains and mountains. The RiverNiger is the country’s only permanent waterway; ittraverses the south-eastern part of the country andis 550 km long. The country has abundant ground-water resources, which constitute the country’s mainwater resources.

The inventory of Niger’s biological diversity compo-nents revealed an abundance of flora and fauna. Thecountry has approximately 3,200 animal species,

with insects accounting for the greatest number ofthese at 2,021 species or 63 percent. A total of 168species of mammals and 512 bird species were lis-ted. Based on current knowledge, Niger’s biodiver-sity is also thought to include 2,124 plant species.

Use of the Planning MatrixTwelve of the planning matrix’s 15 themes wereselected and adapted by the Republic of Niger in itsnational biodiversity strategy (see table 6).

The development of agricultural resources wasaddressed under two separate themes, Agricultureand Livestock Production, in view of existing tensionsregarding the use of land for these two activities.The development of technology and services waslimited to issues related to biotechnology and bio-safety. Societal Values was broken down into several


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TABLE 6Biodiversity Themes Selected by the Republic of NigerCompared with Planning Matrix

Theme and Subthemes SelectedPlaning Matrix Themes by the Republic of NigerEnergy Resources Energy ResourcesConservation of Natural Resources ConservationDevelopment of Wildlife Resources WildlifeDevelopment of Forest Resources Forest ResourcesDevelopment of Agricultural Resources Agriculture

Livestock ProductionDevelopment of Mineral Resources Mining ResourcesIndustrial Developmentof Technology and Services Biotechnology and BiosafetyDevelopment of the Urbanand Rural Environment Land Use PlanningAtmospheric and Aquatic Basins Water and Aquatic Resources ManagementTerritories under Special Jurisdiction -Environmental and Civil Emergencies Environmental EmergenciesEco-civism Participation of Populations, Civil Society and

the Private SectorSocietal Values Environmental Assessments

Public Awareness, Training, ResearchLegal and Institutional Framework

Quality of Life -Spiritual and Religious Values Traditional Knowledge and Spiritual ValuesTotal: 15 Themes Total: 16 Themes and Subthemes


themes, while the theme devoted to territories underspecial jurisdiction, of little relevance at a nationallevel, was omitted.

The national biodiversity strategy and action planwere elaborated and validated under the supervisionof the national planning team.

Priority actions were selected from the national stra-tegy for inclusion in the national action plan. Theplan extends over five years and will be updated byprogressively incorporating priority 2 and 3 actions.Priority actions were consolidated and harmonizedin order to include them under coherent themes, for-mulated into seven projects and programs.

ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF MAURITANIA

Geographic and Ecological OverviewThe Islamic Republic of Mauritania covers a totalarea of 1,025,520 km2. Its total population was esti-mated at 2.3 million in 1988, with 46 percent depen-dent on agriculture and livestock production.

Mauritania is a very arid country with diversifiedrelief which includes plateaus, sand dunes and plains.

The country may be divided into three ecoclimaticregions: a sparsely populated Saharan region withannual rainfall of less than 100 mm; a Sahelian regionwith between 100 and 400 mm of rainfall; and aSudano-Sahelian region, along the Senegal River,which receives a little over 500 mm of rainfallannually, making it the main focus of crop production.

Mauritania’s fauna is abundant and diversified. Thenational territory boasts the highest concentrationof waders in the world and millions of migratorybirds spend the winter there.

Use of the Planning MatrixThe Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s national stra-tegy comprises 17 themes and subthemes, adaptedfrom 13 of the planning matrix themes (see table 7).

The Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s strategy differsfrom tools described previously in that it subdividesthe theme Development of Wildlife Resources intotwo separate themes, namely, Terrestrial WildlifeResources and Halieutic Resources. The importanceattributed to marine and coastal biodiversity isexplained by the fact that offshore fishing is the lea-ding foreign exchange earner and employer inMauritania.

Biodiversity Planning Progress ReportAs the planning process had not been completed inMauritania at the time of publication, we are unableto provide a report.

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TABLE 7Biodiversity Themes Selected by the Islamic Republic of MauritaniaCompared with Planning Matrix Themes

Themes and Subthemes SelectedPlanning Matrix Themes by the Islamic Republic of MauritaniaEnergy Resources Energy ResourcesConservation of Natural Resources ConservationDevelopment of Wildlife Resources Terrestrial Wildlife Resources

Halieutic ResourcesDevelopment of Forest Resources Ligneous and Non-Ligneous ResourcesDevelopment of Agricultural Resources Agricultural ResourcesDevelopment of Mineral Resources Mining ResourcesIndustrial Developmentof Technology and Services Biotechnology and BiosafetyDevelopment of the Urbanand Rural Environment Land Use PlanningAtmospheric and Aquatic Basins Water ResourcesTerritories under Special Jurisdiction -Environmental and Civil Emergencies Environmental EmergenciesEco-civism Participation of the Population,

Non-Governmental Organizationsand the Private SectorIncentive Measures

Societal Values Environmental AssessmentsPublic Awareness, Education and TrainingLegal and Institutional Framework

Quality of Life -Spiritual and Religious Values Traditional Knowledge and Spiritual Values



REPUBLIC OF DJIBOUTI

Geographic and Ecological OverviewA small territory covering an area of 23,200 km2, theRepublic of Djibouti has a hot, arid climate andhighly diversified, chiefly volcanic, relief. In 1998, thepopulation of Djibouti was estimated at about650,000.

The climate is tropical, arid or semi-arid, varying withaltitude. While relative humidity varies widely, from40 to 90 percent, the average temperature is morestable, ranging from 25 °C in winter to 35 °C in sum-mer. The climate, far from being uniform across thisrather small territory, varies according to season andregion. Annual rainfall usually ranges from 50 mmto 215 mm with an average of 130 mm, but may varygreatly from year to year.

Terrestrial biodiversity is unevenly distributed accor-ding to altitude-related variations in rainfall and cli-mate. In high-altitude mountainous regions, the mildclimate and relatively abundant rainfall result in aconcentration of biological diversity. Other moun-tainous regions at lower altitudes have lower tem-peratures and less dense fauna and vegetation. Theremainder of the territory is made up of low-alti-tude, generally semi-desert, regions (plateaus, plainsand depressions).

The country lies at the confluence of the Red Sea(one of the seas with the richest diversity of fish) andthe Indian Ocean. In addition, Djibouti has a 370 km-long coastline and four main islands. Marine biodi-versity is therefore varied. The principal coastal eco-systems are coral reefs and mangrove forests.

Based on current knowledge, Djibouti’s biodiversity(terrestrial and marine) numbers 826 plant speciesand 1,417 animal species, including 493 invertebratespecies, 455 fish species, 40 reptile species, 3 spe-cies of amphibians, 360 bird species and 66 speciesof mammals.

Use of the Planning MatrixTable 8 shows that 13 of the planning matrix 15themes were selected and adapted in the elabora-tion of the Republic of Djibouti’s biodiversity stra-tegy and action program.

The main difference between the strategy elabora-ted in the Republic of Djibouti and that of previouslydescribed strategies is its subdivision of the themeIndustrial Development of Technology and Servicesinto two separate themes, namely, Biotechnology andBiosafety and Tourism. Considerable importance istherefore attributed to the development of tourism.As explained in the national strategy, the naturalenvironment forms the basis for tourism. The deve-lopment of this sector is therefore largely reliantupon the country’s capacity to safeguard the envi-ronment. Consequently, planners considered it ofprime importance to closely link tourist developmentand biodiversity planning efforts.

Biodiversity Planning Progress ReportThe preparation of the Strategy was preceded by anational biodiversity assessment. The biodiversitystrategy itself was prepared and validated by aninterdepartmental committee and then submittedfor public consultation. It must be noted that theelaboration of the action program was facilitated bythe exercise in planning and identifying priorityactions conducted previously within the frameworkof the National Action Plan for the Environment.

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TABLE 8Biodiversity Themes Selected by the Republic of DjiboutiCompared with Planning Matrix Themes

Themes and Subthemes SelectedPlanning Matrix Themes by the Republic of DjiboutiEnergy Resources Energy ResourcesConservation of Natural Resources ConservationDevelopment of Wildlife Resources Terrestrial Wildlife Resources

Halieutic Resources (Marine and Coastal Biodiversity)Development of Forest Resources Ligneous and Non-Ligneous ResourcesDevelopment of Agricultural Resources Agricultural ResourcesDevelopment of Mineral Resources Mineral ResourcesIndustrial Development Biotechnology and Biosafetyof Technology and Services TourismDevelopment of the Urbanand Rural Environment Land Use Planning and Urban DevelopmentAtmospheric and Aquatic Basins Water ResourcesTerritories under Special Jurisdiction -Environmental and Civil Emergencies Environmental EmergenciesEco-civism Participation of the Population,

Non-Governmental Organizationsand the Private SectorIncentive Measures

Societal Values Environmental AssessmentsPublic Awareness, Education and TrainingLegal and Institutional Framework

Quality of Life -Spiritual and Religious Values Traditional Knowledge and Spiritual Values



SULTANATE OF OMAN

Geographic and Ecological OverviewThe territory of the Sultanate of Oman occupies anarea of 212,460 km2 and is made up of desert plainsand mountain ranges. Its coastline stretches for2,092 km. The population is estimated at approxi-mately 2.5 million.

Despite the generally hot, arid climate, the territo-ry’s biodiversity is relatively abundant, particularlyin regions with high precipitation. In the northernpart of the country, distinct biogeographic regionssupport species native to Iran and Pakistan, while therelative number of African species increases towardthe south.

According to current inventories, the plains andwoodlands comprise over 1,208 plant species, inclu-ding many that help prevent soil erosion and deser-tification. In terms of fauna, 54 species of mammals,454 bird species, 89 species of amphibians and rep-tiles and 1,149 fish species and a wide variety ofcoral species have been identified.

The plant community has 78 endemic species, whilefauna includes five species of mammals endemic atregional and national levels, in addition to six speciesof reptiles and amphibians and 26 species and sub-species of scorpions endemic at a national level.Several of these species are threatened.

Use of the Planning MatrixTable 9 shows that the Sultanate of Oman’s natio-nal biodiversity strategy was largely structuredaround the planning matrix themes, fourteen ofwhich were selected (the only theme omitted fromthe national strategy is that of Territories under spe-cial jurisdiction, of which there are none in theSultanate).

In elaborating the strategy, planners adapted theplanning matrix themes, subdividing the themeDevelopment of Wildlife Resources into two newthemes, Terrestrial and Freshwater Wildlife andMarine Wildlife and Fisheries. The importance attri-buted to marine biodiversity resources and relatedactivities is explained by their position in the natio-nal economy, and the fact that many problems (lackof knowledge, impacts of human activities, includingaquaculture, natural threats, etc) were identified.

The theme Industry, Technology and Services dealslargely with tourism, a developing sector.

It must be noted that the theme Water Resourcesmakes it possible to integrate actions set out in thenational action plan to comply with the Conventionto Combat Desertification.

The theme Societal Values addresses public aware-ness, education and training, environmental impactstudies and the legal and institutional framework.The theme Quality of Life focuses on the integrationof environmental considerations into publicaccounts. Lastly, in keeping with Islamic principles,the theme Spiritual Values recalls the unique andirreplaceable character of every life form and stressesthe importance of taking spiritual values intoaccount in the conservation and use of biodiversity.

Biodiversity Planning Progress ReportThe strategy was submitted to various ministries andthe principal government partners for consultation.The process initiated in the Sultanate of Omanshould lead, in 2001, to the implementation of afive-year action plan comprising approximately 70actions including the main actions not yet realizedwithin the framework of the 1992 NationalConservation Strategy, the 1993 National Strategyto Combat Desertification and the 1995 Manage-ment Plan for Coastal and Marine Areas.

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TABLE 9Biodiversity Themes Selected by the Sultanate of OmanCompared with Planning Matrix Themes

Themes and Subthemes SelectedPlanning Matrix Themes by the Sultanate of OmanEnergy Resources Energy ResourcesConservation of Natural Resources Conservation of Natural ResourcesDevelopment of Wildlife Resources Terrestrial and Freshwater Wildlife

Marine Wildlife and FisheriesDevelopment of Forest Resources Terrestrial and Aquatic FloraDevelopment of Agricultural Resources Agricultural ResourcesDevelopment of Mineral Resources Mineral ResourcesIndustrial Developmentof Technology and Services Industry, Technology and ServicesDevelopment of the Urbanand Rural Environment Urban EnvironmentAtmospheric and Aquatic Basins Water ResourcesTerritories under Special Jurisdiction -Environmental and Civil Emergencies Environmental EmergenciesEco-civism Participation of the Population,

Non-Governmental Organizationsand the Private Sector

Societal Values Societal ValuesQuality of Life Quality of LifeSpiritual and Religious Values Spiritual Values


S Y N E R G Y B E T W E E N B I O D I V E R S I T Y –R E L A T E D C O N V E N T I O N S

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In addition to the Convention on BiologicalDiversity, numerous multilateral treaties andagreements are closely connected to the conser-

vation and sustainable use of biological resources.Chief among these are:

• the United Nations Framework Convention onClimate Change;

• the Convention to Combat Desertification;• the Convention on International Trade in Endangered

Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES);• the Convention on the Conservation of

Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS);• the Convention on Wetlands of International

Importance (Ramsar);• the World Heritage Convention (WHC).

In recent years, the lack of synergy between biodi-versity-related conventions has been deplored andmany international workshops have addressed thisissue. The Conference of the Parties to theConvention on Biological Diversity has made specialefforts to facilitate the concerted action of expertsworking on the implementation of these conven-tions. In 1998, participants at the eleventh sessionof the Global Biodiversity Forum noted that, whilethese environmental treaties are closely related, theirapplication is parallel rather than complementary,which leads to difficulties in their implementation.

(…) this proliferation of agreements has led to a moreand more fragmented international environmentalregime. The planning and implementing capacity ofmany countries has become stressed.

It was recommended that the international environ-mental regime be viewed in a more holistic manner andthat, at the national level, countries endeavour to domore to coordinate their efforts to implement theseagreements.

(…) Workshop participants stressed the need to identifyareas of common concern that can be pursued in theaction plans under the three Rio Conventions. (IUCN, 1999)

It is possible, using the planning matrix, to establishcomplementary linkages between biodiversity rela-ted conventions within the diverse themes covered,within the sectoral strategies and within financial

and economical aspects (Prescott, Gauthier andNagahuedi, 1998. This can be achieved throughsimultaneously considering the stakes, the objectivesand the actions related to the implementation ofeach convention. When sectoral strategies or actionplans have already been adopted, one could findhelpful to redistribute in the matrix the informationcoming from these documents to identify conver-ging or overlapping elements. The close examination of each article of the conven-tions can lead to relating them to the correspondingtheme of the matrix. Table 10 shows the integrationof three conventions, the Convention on BiologicalDiversity, the United Nations Framework Conventionon Climate Change and the Convention to CombatDesertification into the themes and decision process.Table 10 demonstrates the matrix capacity to dealwith the themes addressed by the three conventionsunder consideration. Articles from the Conventionon Biological Diversity are widely distributed acrossthe framework, while the more sectoral UnitedNations Framework Convention on Climate Changeand the Convention to Combat Desertification per-tain only to some of the planning matrix themes. Thesimultaneous consideration of several conventionsin the matrix thus permits the implementation of acomprehensive national strategy, covering all themesrelated to biodiversity. (It would be a simple matterto add to table 10 the CITES Convention, which chie-fly covers the themes of the conservation of naturalresources, the development of wildlife resources, thedevelopment of forest resources, eco-civism, societalvalues, quality of life and spiritual values).In short, the planning matrix makes it possible to ful-fil many national commitments related to biodiver-sity. The product of this exercise, while longer thanthe strategy concerning the Convention on BiologicalDiversity alone, is nonetheless not as lengthy asseveral strategies prepared separately. Moreover, astrategy that integrates the objectives of severalcommitments is more effective and minimizes therisk of duplication of human, physical and financialresources.

TABLE 10Integration of Three Biodiversity – Related Conventions into the Planning Matrix ThemesPlanning Matrix Themes Convention on Biological Diversity Framework Convention on Climate Change Convention to Combat Desertification

1. Energy Resources Art. 8l – Art. 10.4Regulation or management Development and efficient use of variousof threats to biodiversity energy sources

2. Conservation of Natural Resources Art. 8a, b, e Art. 4.1.d Art. 10.2cEstablishment and management Sustainable management of sinks Preventive measures for landsof protected and adjacent areas and reservoirs of greenhouse gases that are not yet degradedArt. 8c (biomass, forests, oceans, and other ecosystems) Art. 10.4Regulation and management Sustainable management of natural resourcesof biological resourcesArt. 8d, fProtection and restorationof ecosystems and species Art. 8iCompatibility between use and conservationArt. 8kProtection of threatened species and populationsArt. 8lRegulation or managementof threats to biodiversityArt. 9 Ex-situ conservation

3. Development of Wildlife Resources Art. 8c Art. 4.1.d Art. 10.4Regulation and management Sustainable management of sinks Sustainable management of natural resourcesof biological resources and reservoirs of greenhouse gasesArt. 8i (biomass, forests, oceans, and other ecosystems)Compatibility between use and conservationArt. 8jKnowledge of indigenous and local communitiesArt. 8lRegulation or managementof threats to biodiversityArt. 10bMeasures for sustainable useArt. 10cCustomary use

4. Development of Forest Resources Art. 8c Art. 4.1.d Art. 10.4Regulation and management Sustainable management of sinks Sustainable management of natural resourcesof biological resources and reservoirs of greenhouse gasesArt. 8i (biomass, forests, oceans, and other ecosystems)Compatibility between use and conservationArt. 8jKnowledge of indigenous and local communities


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Synergy Between Biodiversity Related Conventions 65

TABLE 10 (CONTINUED)Integration of Three Biodiversity – Related Conventions into the Planning Matrix ThemesPlanning Matrix Themes Convention on Biological Diversity Framework Convention on Climate Change Convention to Combat Desertification

Art. 8l – –Regulation or management of threatsto biodiversityArt. 10bMeasures for sustainable useArt. 10cCustomary use

5. Development of Agricultural Resources Art. 8c Art. 4.1.e Art. 10.3eRegulation and management Elaboration of plans for the management Sustainable irrigation programsof biological resources of agriculture Art. 10.4Art. 8i Ecologically sustainable agricultural practicesCompatibility between use and conservationArt. 8jKnowledge of indigenous and local communitiesArt. 8lRegulation or managementof threats to biodiversityArt. 10bMeasures for sustainable useArt. 10cCustomary use

6. Development of Mineral Resources Art. 8l – –Regulation or managementof threats to biodiversity

7. Industrial Development Art. 8g – –of Technology and Services Regulation, management or control of organisms

resulting from biotechnologyArt. 8lRegulation or managementof threats to biodiversityArt. 15Access to genetic resourcesArt. 16Access to and transfer of technologyArt. 19Handling of biotechnologyand distribution of its benefits

8. Development of the Urban Art. 8l – Art. 10.4and Rural Environment Regulation or management of threats to biodiversity Demographic dynamics


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9. Atmospheric and Aquatic Basins Art. 7 to 10 Art. 4.1.d Art. 10.2dIdentification and monitoring Sustainable management of sinks Enhancement of national climatological, In-situ conservation and reservoirs of greenhouse gases meteorological and hydrological capabilitiesEx-situ conservation (biomass, forests, oceans, and other ecosystems) Art. 10.4Sustainable use Strengthening of capabilities

Art. 4.1.e for assessment and observationElaboration of plans for coastal zone Art. 17.1gand water resources management Research to enhance the availability

of water resources

10. Territories under Special Jurisdiction Depending on a country’s situation, convention articles may or may not apply in full to these territories

11. Environmental and Civil Emergencies Art. 8h Art. 4.1.e Art. 10.3aControl or eradication of those alien species Elaboration of plans for the protection Establishment of early warning systemswhich threaten ecosystems, habitats or species and rehabilitation of areas affected by drought, Art 10.3b14.1d,e desertification or floods Contingency plansPrevention of danger or damageand establishment of contingency plans

12. Eco-Csivism Art. 8m – Art. 10.2fProvision of financial support Participation of non-governmental Art. 10d organizations and local populationsSupport for local populationsto implement remedial actionArt. 10eFostering of cooperation between governementalauthorities and the private sector in developingmethods for sustainable use

13. Societal Values Art. 8j Art. 4.1.f Art. 10.2.eKnowledge of indigenous and local communities Use of impact assessments Promotion of policies and strengthening Art. 11 Art. 4.1.i of institutional frameworksAdoption of economic incentives Education, training and public awareness Art. 10.4Art. 12 Art. 6 Promotion of alternative livelihoods Research and training Education, training and public awareness and improvement of national economicArt. 13 environments. Institutional and legal frameworks. Public education and awareness Capacity building, education and public awareness.Art. 14.1a, b Art. 17.1.dIntroduction of impact assessment studies Development and strengthening (projects, programs, policies) national research capabilities

Art. 19 Capacity building, education and public awareness

Synergy Between Biodiversity Related Conventions 67


14. Quality of Life Art. 7 to 10 – Art. 10.3cIdentification and monitoring Food security systemsIn-situ conservation Art. 10.3dEx-situ conservation Alternative livelihood projects to provide incomesSustainable development Art. 17.1b

Research on the improvement of living conditionsArt. 17.1eResearch on poverty and migration

15. Spiritual and Religious Values Art. 8jKnowledge of indigenous and local communities – –

C O N C L U S I O N

69

Recent decades have been marked, on an inter-national scale, by increasing concern for theenvironment. International agreements regar-

ding the conservation and use of natural resourceshave multiplied, addressing a growing number ofinterrelated subjects.

To follow up on their commitments, signing coun-tries of these agreements have undertaken to collectextensive data on species and ecosystems. In doingso, they face the considerable challenge of incorpo-rating this information into the national decision-making dynamic.

In this context, the biodiversity planning matrixrepresents a first-rate tool to facilitate the prepara-tion of effective strategies and action plans, that is,strategies and action plans capable of prompting allsectors of society to contribute to the attainment ofobjectives related to the conservation and sustai-nable use of natural resources.

The biodiversity planning matrix has been used suc-cessfully in various social, political and geographi-cal contexts. In each case, it allowed diverse secto-ral data to be classified in a coherent whole, as wellas allowing environmental concerns to be integra-ted into society’s various sectors of activity.

Experience has also shown that the planning matrixenables diverse related conventions to be imple-mented simultaneously, providing countries with aunique action framework to facilitate the achieve-ment of sustainable development.

Furthermore, this planning tool allows existing stra-tegies to be evaluated by revealing their strengthsand weaknesses, facilitating the integration and refi-nement of current sectoral strategies. Lastly, thematrix promotes the adoption of the same planningframework by neighbouring countries, facilitatingthe resolution of common problems.

For all the above reasons, the biodiversity planningmatrix proves to be one of the most pertinent toolsfor integrating the conservation and sustainabledevelopment of environmental resources into plan-ning processes, bringing us one step closer to theachievement of sustainable development.

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B I B L I O G R A P H Y

CAREW-REID, J., R. PRESCOTT-ALLEN, S. BASS and B.DALAL-CLAYTON. 1994. Strategies for NationalSustainable Development: A Handbook for theirPlanning and Implementation. IIED and IUCN,London and Gland (Switzerland), 230 p.

CONSEIL RÉGIONAL DE L’ENVIRONNEMENT 02. 1999. LesÉtats généraux de l’environnement. Dix années àrevoir… un avenir à prévoir, public consultationdocument, Alma, Québec.

DANSEREAU, P. 1957. Biogeography: An EcologicalPerspective. The Ronald Press Co., New York, 394 p.

DANSEREAU, P. Ecology and the Escalation of HumanImpact. International Social Science Journal22(4): 628-647.

GAUTHIER, B. 1995, revised in 1998. Cadre de référencethéorique pour le développement durable et la bio-diversité au Québec, Ministère de l’Environnementet de la Faune, Direction de la conservation et dupatrimoine écologique, Québec, 21 p.

GAUTHIER, B. 1996. Un modèle de développement durableappliqué aux industries minières du Québec,Université de Montréal, Centre de recherche enécologie sociale, Montréal, 109 p. + appendices.

HAGAN, R. A. 1999. A Guide for Countries PreparingNational Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans,United Nations Development Programme,Biodiversity Planning Support Programme, New York.

IUCN - WORLD CONSERVATION UNION. 1999. Report ofthe Eleventh Global Biodiversity Forum: ExploringSynergy between the UN Framework Convention onClimate Change and the Convention on BiologicalDiversity. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge,United Kingdom, 35p. + appendices.

MILLER, K. R. and S. M. LANOU. 1995. NationalBiodiversity Planning: Guidelines Based on EarlyExperiences Around the World. World ResourcesInstitute, United Nations Environment Programmeand The World Conservation Union (IUCN),Washington (D.C.), Gland (Switzerland), Nairobi,169 p.

PRESCOTT, J. and B. GAUTHIER. 1999a. BuildingBiodiversity into Sectoral Planning: The Need for aBiodiversity Action Plan Framework. GlobalBiodiversity Forum 14, Montréal, June 13-20, 1999.

PRESCOTT, J. and B. GAUTHIER. 1999b. “La stratégie et leplan d’action québécois sur la diversité biologique.Une évaluation de mi-parcours”, Le Naturalistecanadien, 123(1): 36-40.

PRESCOTT, J., B. GAUTHIER and J. NAGAHUEDI MBONGUSODI. 1998. “Un arbre: trois conventions”, LiaisonÉnergie-Francophonie, no. 39, pp. 29-32.

PRESCOTT, J., B. GAUTHIER and L. GAUDREAU. 1998. Lamise en œuvre de la Convention sur la diversité bio-logique au Québec: d’une stratégie globale à un pland’action régional, Ministère de l’Environnement etde la Faune, Québec, 15 p.

PRESCOTT, J., B. GAUTHIER and L. GAUDREAU. 1999.Implementing the Convention on BiologicalDiversity in Quebec: From a Global Strategy to aRegional Action Plan. Pp. 327-345, in Bocking, S.(ed.) Biodiversity in Canada: Ecology, Ideas andActions. Peterborough: Broadview Press.

QUÉBEC. 1996. Convention sur la diversité biologique.Stratégie de mise en œuvre au Québec, Ministèrede l’Environnement et de la Faune, Québec, 122 p.

QUÉBEC. 1996. Plan d’action québécois sur la diversité bio-logique, Ministère de l’Environnement et de laFaune, Québec, 71 p.

QUÉBEC. 1999. Suivi du Plan d’action québécois sur ladiversité biologique. Rapport annuel 1998-1999,Ministère de l’Environnement, Québec, 89 p.

RÉPUBLIQUE DE DJIBOUTI. 2000. Monographie Nationalede la Diversité Biologique de Djibouti, Direction del’Environnement, Ministère de l’Habitat, del’Urbanisme, de l’Environnement et del’Aménagement du Territoire, 263 p.

RÉPUBLIQUE DE DJIBOUTI. 2000. Stratégie et Programmed’action national sur la diversité biologique,Direction de l’Environnement, Ministère del’Habitat, de l’Urbanisme, de l’Environnement et del’Aménagement du Territoire, 85 p.

La Convention sur la diversité biologique

RÉPUBLIQUE DEMOCRATIQUE DU CONGO. 1997. Stratégienationale de la biodiversité, Ministère del’Environnement, Conservation de la nature etTourisme, 39 p.

RÉPUBLIQUE DU NIGER. 1998. Vision nationale de la diver-sité biologique, Ministère de l’Hydraulique et del’Environnement, 85 p.

RÉPUBLIQUE ISLAMIQUE DE MAURITANIE, 1999. Stratégieet plan d’action national sur la diversité biologique(projet), Islamic Republic of Mauritania, 56 p.

RIBAUT, J.P. 1997. “Religions, cultures et … environne-ment”, Naturopa, No. 83, p. 2.

SULTANATE OF OMAN. 2000. National BiodiversityStrategy and Action Plan (draft document), Ministryof Regional Municipalities and Environment, 63 p.

UNEP/CBD/COP/4/11. 1998. Untitled.

WORLD COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENT AND DEVE-LOPMENT. 1987. Our Common Future.

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For further information on the method proposed inthis document, please contact:

Jacques Prescott

Direction du patrimoine écologiqueet du développement durableMinistère de l’Environnement

675, boul. René-Lévesque EstQuébec, QcCanada G1R 5V7

Telephone: (418) 521-3907 poste 4690Fax: (418) 646-6169E-mail: [email protected]

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