"Does access to natural resources and a clean environment provide a stepping stone out of deprivation, or does it act as a millstone that impedes the transition to greater progress? Nature’s Paradox: Stepping Stone or Millstone? assesses the intersection of the two major crises of the 21st century—the growing scarcity of land, air, and water and rising vulnerability. As countries around the world grapple with multiple crises, local communities and the most vulnerable populations often bear the brunt of the impacts.
Vulnerable and underrepresented groups predominantly reside in rural areas, are employed in agriculture, and have limited access to essential
public services. While these groups may be less exposed to air and water pollution, the impact of their underrepresentation in decision-making
processes is disproportionately high, likely due to a lack of public services and an inability to cope with environmental stresses. These groups also
suffer more due to land degradation and deforestation, with the not
