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COP16: Biodiversity Summit Ends in Disarray
COP16, the UN Biodiversity Conference, ended in disarray, failing to secure funding and leaving key goals unachieved, despite some progress on genetic data and Indigenous representation.
English
United States
Climate ChangeFundingConservationBiodiversityIndigenous Rights
World Resources InstituteWwf InternationalUn Environment ProgrammeFauna & FloraInternational Indigenous Forum On Biodiversity
Crystal DavisKirsten SchuijtInger AndersenMaria Angelica IkedaJennifer "Jing" Corpuz
- What did COP manage to achieve?
- COP16 achieved a global levy on genetic data, granting nature-rich countries revenue from its use and allocating a significant portion to Indigenous peoples. A permanent body for Indigenous peoples in UN biodiversity decisions was established. An agreement on describing Ecologically Biologically Significant Areas in oceans was also reached.
- What did COP16 fail to achieve?
- COP16 failed to implement a funding strategy for the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, leaving crucial conservation efforts underfunded. It also failed to approve the Convention on Biological Diversity's budget and establish a monitoring framework for the GBF's goals.
- Why did COP16 fail to deliver what’s needed for nature?
- COP16 failed due to insufficient time for discussion, lack of submitted national plans, and disagreements on resource mobilization. Developing nations were forced to leave early due to flight costs, affecting quorum and final decisions.
- What’s next for biodiversity action and the road to COP29
- Following COP16's shortcomings, hopes rest on COP29 for renewed action on biodiversity and climate change. An "all-of-society" approach is needed, involving governments, private sectors, and NGOs to integrate biodiversity and climate goals into sector-specific policies. Wealthier nations are expected to play a greater role in providing financial and political support.