Biological diversity

This report is based on discussions among maritime experts and draws on the conclusions of a workshop that was held in Istanbul in 2007.

For some time now, the European Union has been committed to conserving the world’s biodiversity. In November 2007 more than 400 leaders from business, governments, the EU and NGOs met in Lisbon to explore how European business could improve performance through biodiversity responsibility. These proceedings provide an overview of the rich array of presentations and discussions that took place.

What makes our planet's natural treasures worth saving, and why should we care?  With hundreds of stunning full-color photographs and more than twenty essays from some of the world's most respected scientists, this latest publication in the CEMEX Conservation Book Series aims to provide some of these answers. With scientific analyses, The Wealth of Nature offers a detailed explanation of the various ecosystem services that support and regulate all natural processes on Earth.

This volume gives the most up-to-date information on the distributions and conservation status of species in all inland water ecosystems across mainland continental Africa and the reasons behind their declining status. This represents the most comprehensive assessment yet of freshwater biodiversity at the species level for an entire continent. For managers, this information will assist in designing and delivering targeted action to mitigate and minimise these threats.