The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity is set to take place in Cali, Colombia from October 21 to November 1, 2024. The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) is advocating for unified international action to address the interlinked crises of biodiversity loss and climate change. Key discussions will highlight the need to protect marine biodiversity, and IFAW will present guidelines on wildlife conservation as part of climate strategies during the conference.
As the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) approaches, scheduled to occur in Cali, Colombia from October 21 to November 1, 2024, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) emphasizes the necessity of international cooperation to address the dual crises of biodiversity loss and climate change. Matt Collis, IFAW’s Senior Director of Policy, articulated the interconnectedness of these issues, stating that “We can’t solve either the climate crisis or biodiversity loss without addressing the other.” COP16 will serve as a crucial platform, leading the way for subsequent environmental negotiations, including the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP30, where nations are expected to revise their climate action plans. Notably, the 2023 COP28 Joint Statement has highlighted the urgency of a coherent strategy that intertwines climate and biodiversity goals. Moreover, protecting marine and coastal biodiversity is underscored as essential, given its critical functions in supporting wildlife and regulating climate by absorbing carbon and stabilizing weather patterns. Despite their significance, these ecosystems face severe threats from human activities and climate change. Collis emphasized this point by stating, “Healthy oceans are the foundation of a healthy planet. They absorb carbon, mitigate climate impacts, and support rich biodiversity.” Therefore, COP16 must prioritize actions that safeguard these environments. IFAW plans to conduct an official side event titled “Leveraging wildlife conservation and rewilding to supercharge climate mitigation and adaptation” on October 24, 2024, to explore the vital role of wildlife in combating climate change and to unveil new guidelines for integrating wildlife conservation into climate strategies. For further information regarding CBD COP16 or to arrange interviews with IFAW experts, one may contact Stacey Hedman at [email protected] or call +1 508 737 2558.
The upcoming COP16 meeting, as part of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, signifies a critical opportunity for global leaders to unite in addressing the urgent issues surrounding biodiversity and climate change. As environmental crises escalate globally, the imperative for synergized efforts to tackle biodiversity loss and climate change has become increasingly clear. The interdependence of these challenges necessitates comprehensive strategies during international summits, particularly COP16, where delegates will set the framework for subsequent discussions and policies.
COP16 stands as a pivotal event for shaping future international environmental policy, emphasizing the urgent need for an integrated approach to combat both biodiversity loss and climate change. With the cooperation of global leaders and organizations such as IFAW, there exists a hopeful prospect for meaningful progress through combined efforts. Ensuring that biodiversity and climate objectives are coordinated across all levels will be vital to safeguard our planet’s future.
Original Source: www.ifaw.org
