The world conservation union IUCN : annual report 1997

Abstract

Oceania is geographically one of IUCN's largest regional programmes, covering much of the central and south west Pacific Ocean as well as Australia and New Zealand. The Pacific Islands cover almost 15% of the world's ocean surface. The area is characterized by a high degree of ecosystem and species diversity, as well as a high level of endemicity (often over 90% for particular groups) on many of the Pacific Islands. Increasing awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the threats to these species is critically important to the survival of all species on Earth. Thus, IUCN is working with like-minded organizations to contribute to biodiversity conservation in the Pacific context. The concept of "Investing in Nature" is central to this approach, given that often the day-to-day goods and services provided by nature are taken for granted. For Oceania, it is vital that additional efforts and investments in natural resources promote sustainable long-term use, management and conservation of our biodiversity resources.