Developments in the energy sector are essential components for economic growth that can have a significant bearing on the global economy. At the same time, energy security depends on healthy and diverse ecosystems. Rivers, coastal lands, croplands and forests deliver a range of ecosystem services that support energy production and are also fundamental to human well-being. In an ideal world, a sound solution to the energy crisis would not conflict with simultaneous eff orts to promote the conservation agenda as both play an essential role in human development. Yet experience reflects that biodiversity and ecosystem services are seldom factored into decisions on energy investments and are most often compromised. 

Considering that no source of energy is truly green, the best development models are undoubtedly those that perceive the optimal complementarities between economic development and biodiversity conservation. Considerations of least impacts and possibly, even neutral impacts on biodiversity and other key elements of nature sensitive areas should guide the decisions on which energy options (bio-fuel, coal, hydropower, solar power or wind) or combinations to promote. Biodiversity-inclusive impact assessment can offer the planning and decision support for encouraging the greener energy projects.

The mainstreaming tools are gradually evolving and needs to be popularised through capacity development initiatives like this course for delivering the benefits of sustainable energy development.  This two-day course is an intermediate level course for mid career EA professionals, business groups, decision makers, government officials, donor agencies and economists.