Reaching out for the UNDP Sustainable Development Goals in Patagonia

PASCUAL, M.A.; MATALONI, G.; QUINTANA, R.

Freshwaters and Wetlands of Patagonia - Ecosystems and Socioecological Aspects

Springer Verlag

Año: 2022; p. 527 - 541

During the Sustainable Development Summit held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in 2005, the 193 Member States adopted a new agenda entitled ‘Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’. The Agenda includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that provide a roadmap for joint action by world countries to end global poverty, build a life of dignity for all, and leave no one behind. Although the 17 SDGs are inextricably linked and are all relevant to freshwater and wetland ecosystem integrity and management, one of them directly focuses on freshwater, namely, SDG 6 on Clean Water and Sanitation. Because water scarcity affects more than 40% of people worldwide, a figure projected to rise as temperatures do, this SDG proposes to ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.The SDGs are about fulfilling human needs and expectations, with equity and with environmental sustainability, wherein the preservation and restoration of freshwater ecosystems has an important role. From a biophysical point of view, Patagonia is very well furnished to meet such a challenge. It is a large, ecologically diverse region, a large producer of energy and foodstuff, with a bounty of freshwater and associated benefits to people and with a low population density. Patagonia is also a world-class tourist destination. The true challenge therefore is not related to the availability of resources, but to the wise use of them, collectively visualising desirable scenarios and trajectories for the region’s future and setting appropriate courses of action. Visions and actions can only be construed based on a realistic assessment of challenges and opportunities, backed by good science and strong governance. In this chapter we present our view of the state of the art of science and governance in the region, highlighting the strengths and the weaknesses to reach the UNDP Sustainable Development Goals.