Environment

Urban planning and governance are at the heart of sustainable development. Recognizing the need for strategic territorial planning, Guinea-Bissau hosted the UN-Habitat International Symposium on Urban Planning and Governance on February 11-12, 2025. This event was a pivotal moment for addressing the country’s urbanization challenges and shaping a National Strategy for Urban Development. The ICZM Consultancy team, on mission in Bissau, participated in the UN-Habitat International Symposium, held at Hala Hotel on February 11-12, 2025. For more details on this consultancy

Guinea-Bissau, a nation rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, faces pressing environmental and socio-economic challenges, particularly in its coastal zones. With rising climate risks, rapid urbanization, and governance fragmentation, a strategic and integrated approach is essential for sustainable coastal management. This is where the “Development of a new Integrated Planning and Management Framework for Coastal Zones in Guinea-Bissau (ICZM)” consultancy steps in. But what exactly does it entail, and why is it crucial for Guinea-Bissau’s future? The Consultancy and Mission

The Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau Comprising 88 islands and islets, stands out for its exceptional biodiversity and unique ecological processes. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1996 and classified as a Ramsar Site in 2014, it is home to numerous endangered species and plays a crucial role in marine and coastal conservation in West Africa. OMATÍ MINHÔ — A Contribution from Guinea-Bissau to the World The Bijagós Archipelago is a candidate for UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Its unique natural and cultural characteristics give

Over 80% of European habitats are in poor shape. To address this issue, on 22 June 2022, the Commission proposed a nature restoration law aimed at facilitating the long-term recovery of damaged nature across the EU’s land and sea areas. The Commission estimates that the new law would yield significant economic benefits, with every euro invested resulting in at least 8 euros in benefits. What is included in the law? The EU nature restoration law, agreed with member states, will

On October 26, the final validation workshop of the study “The economic evaluation of mangrove ecosystem services to measure their contribution to the national economy” took place. The study was developed by two international consultants (Giacomo Cozzolino and Daniel Bazzucchi) and one national consultant (Mário Biague). The event brought together a diverse group of participants committed to preserving and enhancing mangrove ecosystems. The workshop focused on lectures and discussions that explored crucial issues related to mangroves and the services they provide.

The pristine paradise of Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), located in the Western Pacific, is a biodiverse haven that beckons nature enthusiasts, conservationists, and adventurous travelers from around the world. Comprising a constellation of islands, atolls, and reefs, this region is a hotspot of marine and terrestrial biodiversity, offering a mesmerizing array of flora and fauna. Terrestrial Biodiversity Unique Flora: The islands of Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia are home to a variety of unique and often

The Terai is a stretch of lowlands in the southernmost part of Nepal (WWF, 2021). The region, often described as the rice bowl of the country, is home to one of the most spectacular assemblages of large mammals in Asia such as the Bengal Tiger, the Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros, the common leopard, Asian elephant, and more (WWF, 2021). The ecosystem services provided by the area plays a major role in supporting the socioeconomic well-being and development of people in the Terai

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef extends for more than 2 kilometers, covering an approximate area of 340 000 square kilometers, making it the largest coral reef system in the world. Designated as a World Heritage Site since 1981, is threatened by the climate crisis that has caused six coral bleaching events in its waters since 1998. The magnificent reef is home to thousands of marine species, hosting over 411 hard coral species and 1,500 types of fish. However, for several years, it

The presence and preservation of nature are fundamental to maintaining environmental balance and human survival. Wetlands, forests, grasslands, and marine habitats play a crucial role in regulating climate and preserving biodiversity. However, it is worrying to note that 80% of European nature is in a state of degradation. In this context, the EU Nature Restoration Law, adopted by the European Parliament on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, by 336 votes to 300 with 13 abstentions, paves the way for even greater action