This policy brief is based on a detailed and comprehensive analysis of relevant scientific and technical information and discussion papers, as well as inputs and comments from various experts. The conclusions can be found in the report “UNCCD Secretariat Policy Brief on Zero Net Land Degradation – a Sustainable Development Goal for Rio+20” with a focus on securing the contribution of our planet’s land and soil to sustainable development, including food security and poverty eradication.

The time is ripe for the international community to commit itself to a land degradation neutral world by setting a sustainable development goal at Rio+20 of Zero Net Land Degradation (ZNLD) in order to secure the continuous availability of productive land for present and future generations. Bold actions need to be taken to protect, restore and manage land and soils sustainably.