Implementing the Programme of Work on Protected Areas (PoWPA) and the Convention on Biological Diversity’s Strategic Plan will depend on increased financial investment and cooperation between developed and developing nations. The simple fact is there is not enough money currently being made available to adequately conserve biodiversity. Based on publicly available data, it is estimated that an expanded protected area network covering 17% of the land and 10% of the sea (Aichi Target 11) by 2018 would cost approximately between $US11 and $US32 billion per year to cover the costs of expansion and effective management of a global network of protected areas.

In response to the lack of sufficient funding and by acknowledging the crucial role protected areas play in meeting both development and conservation goals, in 2009 the CBD Conference of the Parties (COP) created the LifeWeb Initiative to tap funding available for developmental objectives, as well as leverage new and additional funding into strategic, efficient and coordinated investment for protected area projects based on national long term strategies and action plans for the implementation of the PoWPA and support the achievement of the 2020 Aichi Biodiversity Targets. In order to reduce poverty, improve health, and encourage sustainable development we must ensure the protection and equitable use of natural resources and vital services that people depend on to support themselves. Supporting countries implement the PoWPA to develop a representative network of well-managed protected areas with diverse governance mechanisms will be an crucial strategy in the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, the 2020 Aichi Biodiversity Targets, and the successful implementation of plans for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD plus).

The LifeWeb Initiative is a platform designed to promote and match a country’s priorities and needs for implementation of the PoWPA with interested donors and support organizations. LifeWeb projects represent an incredible bargain and return on investment considering the wide range of priceless economic and vital social benefits, both globally and locally, that protected areas provide to humanity. To date, the LifeWeb Initiative has received project proposals from 78 countries and, thanks to LifeWeb Donors, has helped facilitate close to $US 190 million in funding for protected area projects. We would like to thank the exceptional commitment shown by LifeWeb Donors for their continued support for implementation of the 2010 - 2020 Strategic Plan and achievements of the Aichi Biodiversity Targets through projects profiled on the LifeWeb Initiative.