Switch2Zero is delighted to announce that we have been granted membership in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, a critically important initiative dedicated to preventing, halting, and reversing the degradation of ecosystems worldwide.
This membership marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and our dedication to safeguarding the planet for future generations.
It also comes as we are proud to announce hitting another milestone - the planting of 500,000 trees on behalf of our members - which is itself already making a significant contribution to ecosystem restoration..
The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, running from 2021 to 2030, aims to restore billions of hectares of terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
This global effort is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, combating climate change, and ensuring the well-being of humanity. Healthy ecosystems are fundamental to our survival as they provide essential services such as clean air and water, soil conditioning, food security, and climate regulation (UNEP - UN Environment Programme) (UN Decade on Restoration).
Our involvement in this initiative aligns with Switch2Zero's wider mission to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship. By participating in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, we are not only contributing to the restoration of critical ecosystems but also joining a global movement known as #GenerationRestoration.
This movement brings together governments, organisations, businesses, and individuals to collaborate on restoring the natural world that supports us all - as well helping to define the strategic approach needed to deliver restoration at scale successfully: https://www.decadeonrestoration.org/strategy
Ecosystem restoration is more than just an environmental necessity; it is an opportunity to drive substantial social and economic benefits.
According to the UN, restoration activities can generate up to $7 trillion annually in ecosystem services, create millions of jobs, and help eradicate poverty and hunger. It is estimated that for every $1 spent on restoration, there is a $9 return in economic benefit.
The restoration of ecosystems can also play a pivotal role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to climate action, life below water, and life on land - which of course is a core element of S2Z’s wider net zero enablement work.
Commenting, CEO Ian Ormerod, said: “At Switch2Zero, we understand that our efforts to transition towards net-zero emissions must be complemented by initiatives that protect and restore the natural areas upon which we all depend.
“Our planet's ecosystems are interconnected, and their health is vital for maintaining the delicate balance necessary for life on Earth. By restoring degraded ecosystems, we can enhance their capacity to absorb carbon dioxide, support biodiversity, and provide essential resources for communities worldwide.
“The timing is also great, given we have just hit the incredible 500k trees planted mark - so a huge thanks to all our members for sponsoring this fantastic work. To put some perspective on this, together, we have now planted the equivalent of a forest that would stretch 14km on each side if it was a square - which is great for the environment and for the future.”
Meanwhile, Switch2Zero's membership in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration is a testament to our belief in the power of collective action. For more information about the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration or how you or your business can get involved, please visit the official UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration website
