World population has grown significantly from 1.6 billion in 1900 to over 6 billion in 2003, and is projected to exceed 8 billion by 2025. This rapid population growth, combined with rising incomes in developing countries, is expected to place much greater demands on food and environmental resources. The UN has identified goals around reducing poverty and hunger and ensuring environmental sustainability. South Asia faces particular challenges due to high population density and limited natural resources per capita. Globalization is changing economies in South Asia from agriculture-based to more industrial and service-oriented. This integration risks increased environmental degradation if not managed properly. Strategic policy shifts are needed to empower the poor and engage them as partners in pro-poor environmental governance initiatives.