Desertnet international, quo vadis? - a science-policy interface and think tank for sustainable dryland development.

ABRAHAM, E., M. AKHTAR-SCHUSTER, G. ENNE, R. ESCADAFAL, P. FEINDT, M.J. MARQUÉS PÉREZ, C. SAN JUAN MESONADA, M. SCIORTINO, M. SEELY, AND R. THOMAS

Roma

Conferencia; “International Scientific Conference on Advanced Scientific Tools for Desertification Policy”; 2010

De Survey IP, CSIC, European Commission Research

DesertNet International (DNI) is a scientific association and has a legal framework. Within a few months after its foundation in 2009, this scientific network already had over 200 scientists from 44 countries (status may 2010). DNI is regarded as an important international mechanism to enhance knowledge and understanding of the biophysical and socio-economic processes of desertification, and to support mechanism by which science and technology can contribute to sustainable dryland development. The international and multidisciplinary structure of DNI provides a platform for scientific discussions and exchange of ideas to foster cutting edge science, and to identify topics and research areas to combat desertification. DNI contributed substantially to the organisation of the first UNCCD scientific Conference in Buenos Aires in autumn 2009. DNI also provides a science-policy interface. The network disseminates knowledge and responds to demands for assessment and information needs to improve governance. In cooperation with UNU-INWEH, DNI set up and coordinated a global scientific e.consultation from december 2009 to may 2010 on the needs, usefulness and options of an independent, international, interdisciplinary scientific advisory body on land degradation/desertification to scientifically advise the Convention and other policy bodies in decision-making for combating land degradation. Scientists see the result of this e.consultation as an important independent scientific contribution to the COP-request (Autumn 2009) made to the CST for advice on how to organise international and interdisciplinary scientific guidance. Economic evaluation of programmes to combat desertification will be one scientific focus in DNI’s future work. The presentation will highlight the structure and aims of DNI and give an outline of its future activities which will be ratified at the first DNI General Assembly in Rome in 30 September 2010.