Monitoring and evaluation

Monitoring and evaluation is essential for measuring the impacts of land restoration and for ensuring that the AAD programme achieves tangible results. Effective monitoring and evaluation requires measurable indicators, which facilitate evaluation of the extent to which a project is on track and enable the adaptation of implementation strategies in light of evidence. AAD aims to strengthen knowledge of the links between the use of natural resources and livelihoods and therefore requires both biophysical and socio-economic indicators.

Monitoring tools and approaches differ between countries, as does the capacity to carry out such monitoring. The approach complements, as needed, the existing tools of countries with other relevant, up-to-date, easy-to-use tools in ways that will generate harmonized data across countries. To this end, FAO organized trainings and workshops in collaboration with partners to harmonize approaches, develop capacities and plan monitoring and evaluation activities. Variables were identified and are being measured over time to continuously improve programme delivery.

The Great Green Wall restoration monitoring app

The GGW restoration monitoring app is a set of tools based on Google Earth Engine to detect restoration sites, monitor greening progress, and evaluate impact on production [Learn more].