All publications and documents

The purpose of this online publication is to provide information on deserts. This site deals with general issues including aridity, desert types, eolian processes, types of dunes and desert features. Furthermore the problem of desertification is discussed. Information about deserts from the U.S. Geological Survey. Topics : What Is a Desert; How the Atmosphere Influences Aridity; Where Deserts…

This authoritative book presents the results of important new research into the economics of biodiversity conservation in sub-Saharan Africa. The contributors offer case studies of the economic causes of biodiversity loss in a range of ecosystem types – wetlands, montane forests, tropical moist forests, semi-arid savannas and lakes – and discuss the policy options for biodiversity…

Improved adaptation of food production, particularly in areas where climate variability is large, holds the key to improving food security for human populations. Increasing climate knowledge and improved prediction capabilities facilitate the development of relevant climate information and prediction products for applications in agriculture to reduce the negative impacts due to climate variations…

Our future depends on food: it controls our health, underpins social structures, and helps dictate the political agenda. Among the crucial issues discussed in this challenging study of food by the eminent biologist Brian J. Ford are new food-borne diseases and the dietary needs of the young, the elderly, and women. He examines the complex questions of genetically modified food and…

Traditional mountain societies are characterized by their close interconnection with nature and natural resources. They depend upon natural resources and biodiversity for their sustainable livelihood concerns. This linkage with nature and natural resources extends beyond the economic realm; social, cultural and spiritual dimensions also play a significant role. Traditional mountain…

On the invitation of the Mayor of Bonn, Ms. Bärbel Dieckmann, the Second World Forum of Mayors on Cities and Desertification took place in Bonn on June 11th and 12th, 1999. Desertification is assuming ever more threatening proportions worldwide; with a view to controlling and resolving the resulting problems, cities and municipal authorities are desperately looking for support on the basis of an…