Launched in 2011 as the flagship programme of the Satoyama Initiative, the Community Development and Knowledge Management for the Satoyama Initiative Programme (COMDEKS) is a global effort to promote sustainable use of natural resources in the landscapes worked in and relied upon by rural communities. As it enters its fourth phase in supporting local communities to both develop and live in harmony with nature, the programme is sharing best practices illustrating the programme's success and its outlook on the future.

On 12 February 2024, the Keidanren Committee on Nature Conservation (KCNC) and the Ministry of the Environment of Japan (MOEJ) co-hosted an in-person and virtual event in collaboration with the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP), implemented by the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and the UN University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS).

COMDEKS Phase 4 will contribute to the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), including Target 2 on restoration of at least 30% of degraded lands, Target 3 on the “30 by 30” goals to expand conservation of biodiversity in 30% of the landscapes and seascapes globally, and Target 10 on sustainable use of biodiversity in agriculture, aquaculture, fisheries, and forestry.

The event began with opening remarks by speakers from UNDP, KCNC, MOEJ and the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative. Afterwards, a panel discussion presented first-hand insights into COMDEKS case studies from Cambodia and Costa Rica, illustrating how economic diversification can create synergies with the restoration of landscapes and enhancement of biodiversity.

To read the full summary of the event, click here. For more information about COMDEKS, click here.