SciDev.Net
Science and Development Network
News, views and information about science, technology and the developing world
Definitions
List of terms for Biodiversity
Producing enough food for a rapidly growing population, and taking care of our planet are two of the world's biggest challenges.
M
Migratory species
Wildlife that moves from one habitat to another in response to changing seasons, climate and food supply. Migratory birds often travel very long distances on pre-determined routes. They are protected by an international agreement, the 1979 UN Convention on Migratory Species.
Millennium Development Goals
A framework to reduce global poverty before 2015 agreed by the international community at the UN Millennium Summit in 2000. The eight goals are sub-divided into 18 targets measured using 48 indicators. Most development finance is now contingent on countries signing up to achieving the goals. Goal number 7 is to "ensure environmental sustainability". Its indicators include monitoring changes in forestry cover and areas protected to conserve biodiversity.
