Foreword

Abstract

As part of our mission to advance global efforts towards sustainability, UNU-IAS has been contributing to the sustainable use of biodiversity at all levels, through research, policy engagement, and capacity building initiatives. We have focused in particular on promoting resource-management approaches and positive human– nature interactions in various geographically distinct socio-ecological production landscapes and seascapes (SEPLS). Integrated approaches for SEPLS management have the potential to solve various local and regional problems while contributing towards achieving global goals for sustainable development and biodiversity. In fact, many case studies show how SEPLS management has helped to improve the quality of life and the environment with multiple benefits, making SEPLS one of the best options for facilitating transformative change. Recently, actions towards such change have been considered promising strategies to deal with myriad challenges of the environment and sustainable development and thus have become an important part of today's global agenda. In particular, transformative change is urgently needed as the focus shifts towards building back better from the COVID-19 pandemic. UNU-IAS is strengthening our role in this effort, working on elements of transformative change in the context of SEPLS.