The National Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity for 2017-2020 has been approved by the Presidential Decree No. 2358, dated 3 October 2016. The National Strategy on the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity is a national strategy with a cross-sectoral approach. The timeframe of the National Strategy is 4 years between 2017 and 2020. The main objectives of the National Strategy are sustainable use of genetic resources, conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity for the benefit of future generations, poverty eradication, environmental balance, transition to green economy, environmental education, survival of endemic and native species, development of protected areas and reduction of threats to biodiversity. Agricultural development will be ensured in an environmentally sustainable manner by promoting organic farming and ecological production, using agro-technical methods and using organic fertilizers. In order to conserve biodiversity, the effectiveness of protective measures will be increased regarding marine pollution, waste management, pollution prevention, forest management, wetland management, pastoralism, endangered species, protected areas, habitats, natural resources, genetic resources, biosafety, renewable energy sources and transboundary effects. Public awareness on environmental protection, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem preservation will be raised by education at different levels, knowledge sharing, as well as capacity building by strengthening cooperation with international and non-governmental organizations. The monitoring system of biodiversity will be improved and inventory of fauna and flora species will be conducted. Furthermore, a database and an information and advanced warning system will be established. The capacity of the existing eco-tourism will be increased by promoting national parks, nature monuments and protected areas. The adverse impacts of climate change on biodiversity in different ecosystems will be assessed and preventive measures will be taken for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. The existing legislation will be improved in accordance with the international conventions and in line with the EU Directives. The level of participation of the public and civil society regarding biodiversity conservation as well as in the decision-making process at national and local level will be increased. The bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the governmental agencies for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity will be expanded.
National Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity for 2017-2020.