IUCN - The World Conversation Union

• Conservation of biodiversity through completion of systems of protected areas, particularly in the marine biome, as well as promotion of ecological networks and the ecosystem approach to enhance biodiversity conservation and, where appropriate , sustaible use of biodiversity
• knowledge generation and the integration of conservation science, including traditional knowledge, in management effectiveness, conservation tools and mechanisms, protected area management categories, and the setting and maintenance of standards for protected areas
• building awareness, promoting effective conservation edudation and building up practitioner's skills, developing strategies for sustainable financing, and generating and disseminating knowledge - including through PALNet
• improved governance of protected areas; promotion of the full range of governance types for protected areas; increased participation of indigenous peoples and local communities, promotion of contribution of protected areas to human well-being

A number of other programmes will be developed by and driven through the volunteer network of WCPA.

It is organised geographically, thematically and functionally. WCPA has:

Sixteen (16) Regions

Australia/New Zealand; Brazil; Caribbean; Central America; East Asia; Eastern Africa; Southern Africa; Europe; North Africa/Middle East; North America; North Eurasia; Pacific; South America; South Asia; Southeast Asia; and Western and Central Africa

Two Biomes:Mountains and Marine

Four Strategic Directions :

Science and Management
Capacity Development
Governance, Equity and Livelihoods
Conserving Biodiversity

and

World Heritage