Incluye bibliografía

The desertification convention -- Financing for desertification -- Lessons learned -- A strategy for the future -- World Bank assistance and new initiatives -- Concluding remarks -- Notes -- Appendix -- Selected bibliography -- Major abbreviations and acronyms used in this publication -- Data note

This report is based on research, and evaluation work undertaken by the Bank, on the Desertification Convention, an instrument that makes possible the identification of solutions, and the adoption of a more integrated, and comprehensive approach towards preventing resource degradation. Institutional arrangements address organizational planning, and implementation of sustainable management of natural resources, legal and regulatory framework, the role of the public and private sector, market-based interventions, and managerial structures at the sector, and regional levels. Consistent with the Convention, the report stipulates the Bank ' s strategy of integrating desertification concerns, into the mainstream of its development work, which include supporting national environmental planning, building local capacities in affected countries, and responding with investment provisions. Based on lessons learned, and best practices, the strategy embraces better economic, social, and environmental analyses, highlighting the cultural dimensions of development. The report further outlines Bank projects, and initiatives supporting the Desertification Convention.