The impact of human lifestyles on the environment is becoming ever more evident. Climate change, the decline in biodiversity, the loss of tropical rainforests, desertification and environmental problems in the world’s megacities all call for drastic measures.

There are no simple solutions. Our standard of living is too closely tied to economic growth and our extensive, largely unsustainable use of natural resources.

Strong growth in recent years has brought about development successes in emerging and transition countries. Now every effort must be made to ensure that the vital resources required for life on earth are preserved for future generations.

GIZ considers these questions in the following areas:

• Environmental policy and development of institutions
• Climate change
• Management of natural resources
• Urban and industrial environmental protection