Description:
Three-quarters of all poor people still live in rural areas. They are heavily reliant on natural resources for their livelihoods: soil, water, forests and fisheries underpin commercial and subsistence activities and often provide a safety net to the poor in times of crises. These natural resources which are abundant in many developing countries - represent an important asset and potential wealth for poor people and their communities. As many of these natural resources are renewable and if properly managed this wealth is long term. Improved natural resource management can support long-term economic growth, from which poor people, in rural areas and elsewhere, can benefit to achieve and sustain social progress and development. The map is a part of a set, presenting different natural resources, with a focus on developing countries, and the use of natural resources for economic growth and poverty alleviation.