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In World Resources 2005 we showed that ecosystems can become the focus of a powerful model for nature-based enterprise that delivers continuing economic and social benefits to die poor, even as it improves the natural resource base. Evidence shows that poor rural families empowered with secure resource rights can significantly increase their income stream from nature with prudent ecosystem management. To make this possible, a funda- mental shift in governance—in the power of the poor to access resources of value and build functional enterprises—is required.

The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment was carried out between 2001 and 2005 to assess the consequences of ecosystem change for human well-being and to analyze options available to enhance the conservation and sustainable use of ecosystems and their contributions to human well-being. The MA responds to requests for information received through the Convention on Biological Diversity and other international conventions (the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, and the Conven¬tion on Migratory Species) and is also designed to meet the needs of other stakeholders, including business, civil society, and indigenous peoples. It was carried out by approximately 1,360 experts from 95 countries through four Working Groups and encompassed both a global assessment and 33 sub-global assessments. An indepen¬dent Review Board has overseen an extensive review by governments and experts. Each Working Group and each sub-global assessment has produced detailed technical assessment reports

One hundred and fifty-six governments made a statement at the Earth Summit at Rio de Janeiro in 1992: They are prepared to accept responsibility for conserving the full diversity of plant, animal, and microbial life in their countries, to begin using biological resources sustainably, and to seek the equitable sharing of benefits from biodiversity. Rich nations committed themselves to providing technological and financial resources to help poor countries build the capacity to save, manage, and employ their biotic wealth.