Counting down to COP 16
Posted 27th September 2024
The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) has been a cornerstone in global efforts to protect the intricate web of life on Earth since its establishment in 1992. Through its Conferences of the Parties (COP), the UNCBD has continuously influenced international policies and action plans aimed at conserving biodiversity, safeguarding ecosystems, and promoting sustainable resource use.
COP 15, the fifteenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD), was held in two phases: the first part took place virtually in October 2021, while the second part was held in person from December 7 to 19, 2022, in Montreal, Canada. This conference was of paramount importance and it’s significance lay in its agenda to set new global targets for biodiversity conservation for the coming decade. While the conference’s primary achievement was the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, it also provided a platform for numerous side events and discussions, highlighting the essential role of indigenous knowledge and local community engagement in biodiversity conservation. Other discussions covered a wide range of critical issues, including infrastructure, agriculture, invasive species, pesticides, and the roles of businesses and government subsidies. Key agreements that came out of COP15 focused on financing biodiversity, honoring Indigenous leadership, and acknowledging nature’s contributions to humanity. There was a strong emphasis on the interconnection between biodiversity protection and climate change mitigation, recognizing that ecosystems supporting diverse life forms also play a crucial role in carbon storage and climate regulation. COP 15 also stressed the need for increased financial resources to support these ambitious targets and called for stronger global cooperation and commitment from all stakeholders.
Overall, COP 15 was a pivotal moment in global biodiversity governance, setting the course for a sustainable future with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework as a guiding blueprint.
Following COP 15, countries were tasked with revising their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) to align with the new global targets set by the KMGBF. These revisions are crucial for ensuring that national policies and actions harmonize with the KMGBF’s objectives. Additionally, nations are expected to participate in subsequent meetings to refine and establish indicators and monitoring frameworks. These tools will be vital for tracking progress, assessing the impact of conservation measures, and ensuring accountability in implementing the KMGBF. Support for these efforts has been bolstered by the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). Through collaborations with UNDP national offices, these initiatives provided essential financial resources and technical assistance to help countries update their biodiversity strategies, enhance conservation practices, and manage natural resources effectively.
COP 16: Turning Ambitions into Actions
As we look forward to the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP 16), scheduled to take place from October 21 to November 1, 2024, in Cali, Colombia, the global community is filled with anticipation. COP 16 will be a pivotal moment for advancing the KMGBF’s goals and turning its ambitious targets into actionable plans.
At the heart of COP 16 will be evaluating the progress of national strategies to meet the 10-year targets set by the KMGBF. Nations will present updates on their revised NBSAPs, sharing best practices and addressing challenges in implementing these strategies. This evaluation will be crucial for assessing the effectiveness of conservation measures and ensuring that national policies align with global biodiversity objectives.
Mobilizing resources and investments to support conservation efforts will be another critical focus. Discussions will explore innovative financing mechanisms and ways to increase financial commitments from both public and private sectors. Establishing and operationalizing the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) will provide much-needed financial support for KMGBF implementation, ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of funds.
Integrating biodiversity considerations into agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and climate actions will also be a key topic. COP 16 will address the interconnectedness of biodiversity protection and climate change mitigation, emphasizing that ecosystems supporting diverse life forms play a crucial role in carbon storage and climate regulation.
COP 16 represents more than just another conference; it is a crucial opportunity for the international community to reaffirm its commitment to protecting biodiversity and achieving the KMGBF’s goals. The outcomes of this conference will have significant implications for global conservation efforts and the future health of our planet’s ecosystems. As we prepare for this important event, we are reminded of our collective responsibility to safeguard our planet’s rich and diverse natural heritage. COP 16 will be a defining moment in ensuring that we move closer to preserving our world’s biodiversity for future generations.