Poverty and the environment: measuring the links: a study of poverty-environment indicators with case studies from Nepal, Nicaragua and Uganda

The relationship between poverty and environment is complex. This complexity often leads to inadequate understanding and policy responses. Can indicators be developed that encompass both poverty reduction objectives and improvements to the environment? Can such indicators play a role in developing a better understanding of poverty-environment relationships? There are many indicator initiatives that focus on human development and environmental concerns, but they have largely considered these aspects separately. Only recently have there been moves to develop indicators that incorporate the relationship between poverty and environment.

This study was commissioned by the Environment Policy Department of DFID developed and pilot tested generic poverty-environment indicators, for potential use in national Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSPs). The indicators were developed through a review of environmental issues of relevance to the poor, particularly drawing on findings from Participatory Poverty Assessments. The indicators were adapted to specific country priorities and piloted in Uganda, Nicaragua and Nepal through the use of secondary data.