Several major projects have developed recently to promote collaboration among African countries seeking to protect their environments.

The African Ministerial Conferences on the Environment (AMCEN) was established by the United Nations to serve as a forum for discussion on the continent's environment.  Other regional organizations, as well as groups such as the African Economic Community, have also worked for an improved environment.

In 1992, African Common Position on Environment and Development was developed to outline some major concerns, and some development possibilities to be investigated in the future.  This report offered numerous opportunities for cooperation among the continent's nations in both environmental and economic fields.

African countries are also working together to promote political and social stability.  Wars have routinely led to massive environmental damage that governments seek to prevent in the future.

The Network for Environment and Sustainable Development for Africa is an example of an African non-governmental organization (NGO).  These groups have provided the public with environmental information and promoted environmental projects.

Some regional projects have also developed to promote environmental quality.  The International Convention to Combat Desertification and Urgent Action for Africa, the Desert Margins Initiative and the Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development (SARD) are a few examples of groups working with African governments and environmental experts to promote environmental causes.

Treaties and regional agreements such as the 1991 Bamako Convention on the Banning of Transboundary Movement of Toxic Waste are also signs of progress.  As collaborative research, regional environmental projects, and continental agreements occur, Africa is making significant environmental progress.