UN's Sustainable Development Goal 15 - Life on Land

1 Feb 2020

UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 15 – Life on Land

UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 15 – Life on LandThe Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by all United Nations member countries in 2015.

It was a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.

Today, lets read about the 15th SDG – Life on Land

The facts and figures

Around 1.6 billion people depend on forests for their livelihoods.
 	Forests are home to more than 80% of all terrestrial species of animals, plants and insects.
 	2.6 billion people depend directly on agriculture for a living.
 	Forests cover 30% of the Earth’s surface, providing vital habitats for millions of species.

They are important sources of clean air and water, as well as being crucial for combating climate change.
 	Every year, 33 million acres of forests are lost.

While 15% of land is protected, biodiversity is still at risk.
 	Nearly 7,000 species of animals and plants have been illegally traded.
 	Wildlife trafficking is not only eroding biodiversity, but is also creating insecurity, fueling conflict, and feeding corruption.

SDG 15 and its targets

By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of ecosystems like forests, wetlands, mountains and drylands.
 	By 2020, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally.
 	By 2030, ensure the conservation of mountain ecosystems, including their biodiversity.
 	Take urgent action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats, halt the loss of biodiversity and protect and prevent the extinction of threatened species.

Last week, we read about SDG 14. Next week, we will read about SDG 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

Recommended for Middle Grades

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by all United Nations member countries in 2015. It was a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure […]

To read more...

Share your comment! Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

To post your comment Login/Signup