Life on land

Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.

THE TARGETS

Each goal is divided into targets,to provide a more specific and measurable framework for achieving the broader goals. Here I present the first three targets of the 15th goal:

Everyone can help to make sure that we meet the Global Goals.

Target 15.3

END DESERTIFICATION AND RESTORE DEGRADED LAND

Target 15.2

END DEFORESTATION AND RESTORE DEGRADED FORESTS

CONSERVE AND RESTORE TERRESTRIAL AND FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS

Target 15.1

Target 15.1

By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements.

Actions to do to meet this target

• Don’t use pesticides. To protect and sustain the quality of soil, don’t use chemicals while growing plants.

• Clean your local parks and forests. Organise your own or join an existing clean-up event to sustain the ecosystem of your local green space.

• Recycle paper, glass, plastic, metal and old electronics.

Target 15.2

By 2020, promote the implementation of sustainable management of all types of forests, halt deforestation, restore degraded forests and substantially increase afforestation and reforestation globally.

Actions to do to meet this target

• Find a Goal 15 charity you want to support. Any donation, big or small, can make a difference!

• Reduce your use of paper. Avoid printing and substitute it with electronic devices or carriers.

• Compost. Composting food scraps can reduce climate impact while also recycling nutrients.

Target 15.3

By 2030, combat desertification, restore degraded land and soil, including land affected by desertification, drought and floods, and strive to achieve a land degradation-neutral world.

Actions to do to meet this target

• Planting more trees - the roots of trees hold the soil together and help to reduce soil erosion from wind and rain.

• Drip irrigation is where water drips slowly onto the ground from pin-sized holes in a hose lying on top of the soil. This minimises water loss, maximises effectiveness and can be delivered via a solar pump.