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Media advisory

Media briefing 13 October: SEI experts highlight the key topics to watch at biodiversity COP17

On 13 October, Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) invites you to a media briefing where SEI experts will share their perspectives on the connections between science, biodiversity, trade and consumption, and opportunities linked to the bioeconomy and new business models – all key topics for the upcoming UN Biodiversity Conference (CBD COP17) in Yerevan, Armenia (19–30 October).

Published on 29 September 2026
Media advisory contact

Ulrika Lamberth / ulrika.lamberth@sei.org

Mountain landscape of Garni River Gorge in Armenia

Mountain landscape of Garni River Gorge, Armenia.

Photo: TorriPhoto / Getty Images.

CBD COP17 will be the first global stocktake of progress towards the landmark Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The draft global review finds that the world is not yet doing enough to address biodiversity loss, which will be high on the conference agenda. At the conference, SEI will highlight how the identified implementation gaps can be closed – and why this must be a top priority.

COP17 comes as the world increasingly recognizes that biodiversity is not a niche environmental issue but a prerequisite for food production, water security, climate resilience and long-term prosperity. With extreme weather, food insecurity and a “Super El Niño” on the horizon, a shift to an evidence-based, transformative approach is essential – one that can improve the lives of millions. SEI research shows how science can help decision-makers take a more strategic and practical approach to safeguarding biodiversity and functioning ecosystems.

How to attend the briefing

Date and time: 13 October, 13:00–14:00 CEST

Format: Online via Zoom

A recording will be available on demand for those unable to attend.

Register here

Program (CEST)

13:00 Welcome
Ulrika Lamberth, SEI Senior Press Officer

13:05–13:35 Introductory remark and presentations

  • How science can support biodiversity decisions
    Eeva Primmer, Executive Director, SEI, and Bureau Member, Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)
  • Consumption as a driver of international biodiversity loss: why we mustn’t neglect Target 16
    Jonathan Green, Senior Research Fellow, SEI York
  • Advancing the green transition in Armenia, Moldova and Ukraine
    Ilona Kazaryan, Senior Communications and Impact Officer, SEI HQ

13:35–14:00 Open for questions

Interviews and more information

Ulrika Lamberth
Ulrika Lamberth

Senior Press Officer

Communications

SEI Headquarters