In News:

On Earth Day 2025 (April 22), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations launched the AIM4NatuRe (Accelerating Innovative Monitoring for Nature Restoration) initiative with funding from the United Kingdom (GBP 7 million / USD 9.38 million).

Key Highlights:

• The programme aims to enhance countries’ capacities to monitor and report ecosystem restoration as part of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
• Objective: To support Target 2 of the Global Biodiversity Framework:Restore at least 30% of degraded ecosystems globally by 2030.
• Key Features
  • Lead Agency: FAO (United Nations)
  • Funding:
    • GBP 7 million from the UK (approx. USD 9.38 million)
    • Project duration: 2025–2028
  • Scope of Restoration:
    • Forests
    • Wetlands
    • Grasslands
    • Marine ecosystems
    • Degraded agricultural lands
  • Technology Integration:
    • Uses satellite tools, data analysis, and advanced monitoring systems
    • Promotes standardized data formats and data interoperability
  • Monitoring Support Tools:
    • Introduces the Framework for Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring (FERM)
    • Provides technical guidance and capacity development training
  • Inclusivity & Indigenous Participation:
    • Pilot projects in Brazil and Peru
    • Supports Indigenous Peoples in biocentric monitoring — respecting traditional knowledge and holistic ecosystem restoration

Why It Matters

• Global Restoration Commitments: Nearly 1 billion hectares pledged for restoration
• Transparency & Accountability:
  • Creation of a harmonized global dataset
  • Public tracking of progress toward restoration goals
• Bridging Gaps:
  • Responds to 80% of countries reporting lack of monitoring capacity (CBD survey)
  • Provides tools and training for effective implementation and reporting
• Broader Goals:
  • Tackles climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation
  • Enhances food security and livelihoods