New Agriculturist

Dryland opportunities: A new paradigm for people, ecosystems and development

By Michael Mortimore
Published by IUCN, IIED and UNDP
Website: www.iucn.org/publications
2009, 86pp, ISBN 978 2 83171 183 6(Pb), US$18 or free to download

Covering 41 per cent of the earth's surface, drylands provide vital services that support agricultural and pastoral livelihoods. But in most countries dryland ecosystems have been neglected by investment and development interventions. In an attempt to tackle the misconception that drylands are "economic wastelands", Dryland opportunities emphasises the ways in which these ecosystems are economically and environmentally valuable and suggests practical options for development. "A new paradigm is required that meets the needs of dryland people," the authors explain. "It must address the full complexity and dynamics of dryland ecosystems, recognise their potential for development, take account of changing world conditions, and restore the initiative to dryland peoples themselves."

In order to enable dryland communities to sustain their ecosystems, diversify their livelihoods and strengthen their capacity to adapt to climate change the authors recommend: recognising local knowledge and strengthening research into climate change, adaptation and sustainable land management; re-evaluating and sustaining dryland ecosystem services, including soil, wetlands, natural pastures, and non-timber forest products; promoting public and private investment; improving access to profitable markets; and prioritising rights to land and managing risk through insurance and diversification.

Date published: March 2010