InsideJapan News Network

Japan's prime minister Naoto Kan has announced plans to help developing nations protect the environment.

A total of $2 billion (£1.3 billion) is to be provided over three years to fund biodiversity projects. Mr Kan made the announcement at the current United Nations biodiversity summit.

"We will launch a life in harmony initiative to support developing countries' efforts to compile and update their national strategies and implement them," said the prime minister.

He also called for other countries to work together to set targets by following Japan's lead.

The 12-day summit is due to end this week and is committed to developing a ten-year strategy to help protect key ecosystems and prevent the further extinction of species.

This year has been declared the International Year of Biodiversity by the United Nations in an attempt to raise awareness about the role biodiversity plays across the globe.

Written by Kimberley Homer.