The main environmental reference worldwide, UICN-Med is characterised by the development of new formulae directed towards sustainable development. In the General Assembly celebrated in 1994 in Buenos Aires, UICN established the need to create a Cooperation Centre and a framework programme for cooperation in the Mediterranean region. Since that time, members have worked ceaselessly to develop and deploy this programme. The signing of an agreement between the Regional Council of Environment, Junta de Andalucía, the Spanish Ministry of the Environment and UICN resulted in the location of this office in Malaga and in public sponsorship for at least for the first five years, in cooperation with the other members of the organisation and other Mediterranean institutions.

The office’s main objectives are to have an influence in promoting and helping Mediterranean societies to achieve a sustainable use of natural resources.