In the development and environmental discourse, it is increasingly acknowledged that the incorporation of gendered knowledge and practices is not only relevant but essential for sustainable development.

In particular, the gendered division of labour has resulted in women and men in many societies having different roles and knowledge related to biodiversity within their communities.

However, while women are increasingly seen as embodying specific biodiversity knowledge and although an increasing number of experiences highlight the sustainable manner in which women use biodiversity, their role in biodiversity management and decision-making process is often ignored.

It is thus imperative to raise awareness of the genderdifferentiated practices and knowledge related to biological resources. It is essential to recognize that women and men have specifi c needs, interests and aspirations, and that they make different contributions to the conservation and sustainable management of biodiversity.

This Round Table, organized within the framework of the UNESCO International Year of Biodiversity Science-Policy Conference, was therefore intended to demonstrate why the pivotal role of gender in addressing biodiversity challenges merits special consideration in the formulation of conservation policies, strategies, and projects at all levels.