COP16: A Crucial Moment for Biodiversity and Plant-for-the-Planet’s Role

Our long-time Climate Justice Ambassador and Global Board member Johann writes about the importance of the upcoming COP16 conference in Colombia and Plant-for-the-Planet’s role in it.

The upcoming 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is set to be a landmark event in global efforts to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. Taking place in Cali, Colombia, from October 21st to November 1st, 2024, this conference holds immense significance not only for the global community but also for organizations like Plant-for-the-Planet. Thus, we will have a delegation in attendance.

Why COP16 Matters

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is a binding international treaty aimed at conserving biodiversity, promoting its sustainable use, and ensuring the equitable sharing of benefits derived from genetic resources. The conference provides a platform where governments, activists, and various stakeholders come together to negotiate and set global targets for biodiversity conservation.

This year’s COP is especially important because it marks the first major implementation phase of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF), adopted at COP15. The KM-GBF outlines ambitious targets for halting biodiversity loss by 2030 and restoring ecosystems by 2050. With only six years left to achieve key targets, COP16 represents a pivotal moment where action must be ramped up to meet these goals.

Key Themes and Objectives of COP16

One of the central themes of COP16 will be the implementation of the KM-GBF. The framework includes 23 global targets for 2030, which range from conserving 30% of land and water areas (the well-known 30×30 target) to reducing pollution, halting species extinction, and promoting the fair distribution of genetic resources. These targets address pressing challenges like habitat degradation, climate change, and pollution, making them essential to global biodiversity efforts.

Another key area of discussion will be the financial mechanisms necessary to support biodiversity initiatives. The conference will seek to address the $700 billion annual biodiversity financing gap, a critical issue for both developed and developing nations. Innovative financing solutions, such as biodiversity bonds and the newly ratified Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF), will be on the agenda.

Countries are also expected to present their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), which are crucial to aligning national policies with the KM-GBF’s global goals. However, as of now, only a fraction of member states has submitted their updated NBSAPs, highlighting the urgency for accelerated action. 

Plant-for-the-Planet’s Role at COP16

As an organization committed to climate justice and the restoration of ecosystems, Plant-for-the-Planet views COP16 as an opportunity to advocate for stronger actions to protect biodiversity. Our youth delegates will be present in Cali to emphasize the importance of involving young people in global efforts to preserve biodiversity.

Plant-for-the-Planet has long championed the connection between biodiversity and the climate crisis, emphasizing that the health of our ecosystems is intrinsically linked to climate resilience. Our Trillion Tree Campaign, which aims to bring back one trillion trees globally, is a vital initiative that contributes to both biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration. Trees are crucial for stabilizing ecosystems, preserving wildlife habitats, and supporting local communities – all objectives that align with the KM-GBF’s targets. Furthermore, Plant-for-the-Planet offers free open-source software solutions that support nature restoration organizations and people around the world in their efforts. For example, our TreeMapper app, a free monitoring tool for forest restoration programs or our FireAlert app that alerts when likely fires are detected by NASA’s satellites in a selected area anywhere in the world.

Plant-for-the-Planet’s Expectations for COP16

Plant-for-the-Planet is advocating for governments to stick to their 2022 pledge of halting deforestation by 2030 and to convince governments of the Global North to step up financing. We will particularly emphasize the Norwegian and German governments as role models for effective international collaboration. Another key aim of the delegation is to support the Brazilian government’s Tropical Forest Forever Fund (TFFF) proposal. Lastly, we will advocate for more youth involvement in decision-making processes and nature conservation

Over 12,000 attendees are expected, including our delegation of international Climate Justice Ambassadors from Plant-for-the-Planet. On October 26, from 9am to 10am, we will host a side event titled “Partnerships for Biodiversity” in the GEF Pavilion to work towards these critical objectives. The event will highlight forest monitoring technology, innovative financing, and the role of CSOs, with insights from youth, experts, and key stakeholders. It aims to foster stronger partnerships for biodiversity conservation. Register here.

Plant-for-the-Planet is optimistic yet cautious about the outcomes of COP16. We believe that meaningful progress can only be achieved if member states commit to concrete actions and if adequate financial resources are mobilized to support biodiversity initiatives globally. At the same time, there is a need for greater transparency and accountability in the implementation of the KM-GBF.

Conclusion

COP16 represents a make-or-break moment for global biodiversity. The decisions made at this conference will not only determine the fate of countless species and ecosystems but also shape the future of sustainable development for decades to come. Plant-for-the-Planet’s presence at the conference underscores the importance of youth voices in this critical dialogue. As we look ahead to the outcomes of COP16, it is essential that all stakeholders – governments, the private sector and civil society – work together to ensure a future where nature thrives, and biodiversity is protected for generations to come.