United Nations Development Programme
The EMG, in collaboration with the joint UNDP–UN Environment Poverty-Environment Initiative (PEI), convened its second Nexus Dialogue on 13–14 July 2017 to explore how integrated approaches to poverty reduction and environmental sustainability could strengthen implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Bringing together representatives from UN entities, governments, research institutions and other stakeholders, the dialogue examined the interconnected challenges of poverty, environmental degradation and natural resource management. Discussions drew on country experiences from Burkina Faso, Guatemala, Malawi, Tanzania and Uganda, highlighting how environmental considerations could be integrated into national development planning, policymaking, investment and budgetary processes to improve livelihoods and support poverty reduction.
Participants emphasized the importance of stronger policy coherence, collaboration between environment and finance ministries, and meaningful engagement of local communities and marginalized groups. Key priorities included promoting sustainable natural resource management, strengthening gender equality and women's participation in resource governance, developing innovative financing and risk-management mechanisms, and enhancing institutional capacities to support integrated approaches at country level.
The dialogue underscored the importance of moving beyond sectoral approaches towards coordinated policies and partnerships that address poverty and environmental sustainability together. It highlighted opportunities for the UN system to strengthen collaboration, support national institutions and mobilize diverse stakeholders to translate the Sustainable Development Goals into practical, locally relevant action.