"The battle for sustainable development, for delivering a more environmentally stable, just and healthier world, is going to be largely won and lost in our cities, " said Klaus Toepfer, Unep's executive director.

BBC: NEWS | Science/Nature | Changing planet revealed in atlas

It combines natural and social sciences, economics and education to improve human livelihoods and safeguard natural ecosystems, thus promoting innovative approaches to economic development that is socially and culturally appropriate and environmentally sustainable.

UNESCO: Indigenous Peoples

Nature Iraq promotes projects designed to make the marshes' revival sustainable, including plans for a fish hatchery, tourist development and environmentally conscious "Green Villages, " where marsh people can practice their traditional culture while enjoying access to modern education and health care.

NPR: Iraq's Marshlands Face A Second Death By Drought