The discussion focuses on two interconnected priorities: protecting vulnerable transboundary water systems through an ecosystem-based approach and preventing agricultural land degradation at early stages using scalable restoration technologies. The session will cover practical, proven solutions and concrete measures, including strengthening transboundary riverbanks, anti-erosion activities, and nature-based solutions aimed at preserving the critical link between land and water ecosystems.
The 17th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD COP17) is taking place from 17 to 28 August 2026 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, under the theme “Restoring Land. Restoring Hope.” The Conference brings together governments and a wide range of stakeholders to advance action on land restoration, drought resilience and water management.
The Ecumene Global Forum’s official side event at UNCCD COP17, “Guarding the Source: Practical Solutions for Protecting Intertwined Ecosystems,” will take place on 25 August, with a livestream available on the website. The session aims to bring together representatives of the UNCCD secretariat, as well as government, scientific and business representatives from Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia and other countries, to move from discussing existing challenges to practical action.
As one concrete step forward, the session will mark the official launch of the Russian Business4Land (B4L) Hub — a national platform designed to engage Russian businesses in the global agenda for sustainable land, soil and water management.
PROGRAMME
18:00–19:30 ULAANBAATAR / 13:00–14:30 MOSCOW
Guarding the Source: Practical Solutions for Protecting Intertwined Ecosystems