The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is set for 21 October to 1 November 2024 in Cali, Colombia. The conference aims to enhance international cooperation in addressing biodiversity loss and climate change, following the urgent need for these issues to be tackled in tandem, as emphasized by experts from the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). The protection of marine ecosystems will be a significant topic, with a side event highlighting the role of wildlife in climate mitigation.
The upcoming 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) serves as a crucial platform for international collaboration in addressing the escalating crises of biodiversity loss and climate change. Scheduled to take place from 21 October to 1 November 2024 in Cali, Colombia, this conference is a pivotal opportunity for global leaders and environmental experts to align efforts to bolster biodiversity and combat climate challenges. In a statement, Matt Collis, the Senior Director of Policy at the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), emphasized the interdependent nature of these crises: “We can’t solve either the climate crisis or biodiversity loss without addressing the other. COP16 is a pivotal moment to ensure that national and international efforts to protect biodiversity and combat climate change work in tandem, laying the groundwork for the future.” COP16, being the inaugural Rio Convention COP of 2024, is strategically positioned to influence upcoming international environmental negotiations, including the critical United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP30 in 2025. The Joint Statement on Climate, Nature, and People from COP28 highlighted the necessity of a unified approach to these pressing global issues. IFAW advocates for the incorporation of these commitments into the summit’s final resolutions. The protection of marine and coastal biodiversity emerges as a significant aspect of this discourse. These ecosystems are indispensable not only for wildlife but also for stabilizing global climate dynamics through carbon absorption and weather pattern regulation. Collis noted, “Healthy oceans are the foundation of a healthy planet. They absorb carbon, mitigate climate impacts, and support rich biodiversity. COP16 must prioritize the protection of marine ecosystems to ensure that they continue to provide these critical services in the face of escalating climate pressures.” COP16 presents a crucial moment to make impactful strides in addressing biodiversity loss and climate change. Collis commented, “Time is running out to tackle the intertwined crises of biodiversity loss and climate change, but COP16 offers hope. By ensuring that biodiversity and climate efforts are aligned at every level, we can make meaningful progress. The future of our planet depends on it.” In alignment with these goals, IFAW will hold a side event titled “Leveraging wildlife conservation and rewilding to supercharge climate mitigation and adaptation” on 24 October at 16:30pm COT. This event will discuss the essential role of wildlife in climate strategies and unveil new guidelines for integrating wildlife conservation into national climate plans. More information on this event can be found at https://www.cbd.int/side-events/5723.
The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the primary decision-making body of the Convention on Biological Diversity, representing a critical platform where member countries come together to discuss and address pressing environmental issues. As biodiversity diminishes and climate crises become increasingly severe, the importance of coordinated global action to preserve both ecosystems and climate stability is paramount. The upcoming COP16 will facilitate dialogue among nations, urging unified strategies to confront these interlinked challenges effectively.
In summary, COP16 in Cali, Colombia, will serve as a landmark event to foster collaboration between nations in the urgent fight against biodiversity loss and climate change. With calls for aligned efforts and commitments to protect marine ecosystems at the forefront, this conference is poised to set a significant precedent for future environmental negotiations. The integration of biodiversity and climate action is not only vital for the planet’s health but also critical for the well-being of humanity.
Original Source: www.ifaw.org
