Overview
Land degradation refers to the reduction or loss of the biological or economic productivity and complexity of rainfed cropland, irrigated cropland, or range, pasture, forest, and woodlands in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas.
Land degradation occurs when the quality and productivity of land decline due to natural processes and human activities such as unsustainable land use, vegetation loss, soil erosion, pollution, and climate change. For small island developing states like Tuvalu, healthy land is vital for food security, biodiversity, and the well-being of communities.
The Department of Environment works to promote sustainable land management, protect soil health, and restore degraded land areas. Through national policies, community engagement, research, and international cooperation, including participation in the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). The Department aims to ensure that Tuvalu’s limited land resources are managed sustainably for present and future generations.
Tuvalu became a Party to the UNCCD on 14 September 1998, demonstrating its commitment to addressing land degradation and strengthening sustainable land management. As a Party to the Convention, Tuvalu contributes to global efforts to combat land degradation and works towards achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) while building environmental resilience and supporting sustainable development.
What We Do
The Department of Environment is responsible for coordinating national efforts to address land degradation and promote sustainable land management across Tuvalu. Key activities include:
- Developing policies and strategies related to land management and environmental protection.
- Supporting land restoration and conservation initiatives.
- Strengthening community awareness and capacity-building on sustainable land management.
- Coordinating national reporting and participation in international environmental agreements related to land degradation.
These efforts help ensure that Tuvalu’s limited land resources are protected and used sustainably for present and future generations.
Document
– LAND DEGRADATION NEUTRALITY
Project
“Our land is limited, but its value is immeasurable. Protecting and restoring it today ensures that future generations of Tuvalu can live, grow, and thrive.”