In the experience of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), the challenge of improving environmental conditions lies not in an inherent conflict between Man and Nature, but in the penury of natural resources that often forces people to consume the few assets available to them. These conditions often create a downward spiral that results in deeper poverty, depleted soils, deforestedhills, polluted water, disease, and, ultimately, despair. The reasons for this cycle are complex and, in many instances, require integrated, multidisciplinary solutions. Reflecting this complexity, the AKDN’s environmental activities are integrated into broad area development projects. Land reclamation in despoiled or arid areas in Africa and Asia, for example, is part of programmes to raise incomes and manage natural resources. The creation of a 30-hectare park on a former rubble dump in the heart of Historic Cairo is also a catalyst for social and urban revitalisation in the neighbouring Darb al-Ahmar district. Likewise, an experimental village that farms organic vegetables is linked with reforestation efforts that have planted 26 million trees in the Northern Areas of Pakistan, both of which are part of attempts to build environmental assets that will raise the overall quality of life in remote mountain valleys.