Step 1: Analyzing the options.
We are asked to form a meaningful sentence from the given phrases. Let's examine each option:
- (C) starts with the main objective: "of natural ecosystems including forests was the main objective of,"
- (D) follows logically as it talks about the phenomena that were the main focus: "phenomena like climate change, biodiversity, and conservation,"
- (A) introduces the specific event: "The Rio Earth Summit, the first of its kind,"
- (B) concludes by explaining the involvement of world leaders: "involving world leaders on environment and development."
Step 2: Conclusion.
The correct arrangement that forms a meaningful sentence is:
"The need for a scientific understanding of natural ecosystems including forests was the main objective of phenomena like climate change, biodiversity, and conservation, The Rio Earth Summit, the first of its kind, involving world leaders on environment and development."
Thus, the correct answer is 1. (C), (D), (A), (B).
Final Answer:
\[
\boxed{\text{The correct answer is 1. (C), (D), (A), (B).}}
\]