The conference actually consists of three meetings that follow up on key international biodiversity agreements. The main event is COP16, the 16^th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Alongside COP16, there will also be meetings about the Cartagena Protocol (CP-MOP 11) and the Nagoya Protocol (NP-MOP 5).

SEI is primarily engaging with COP16, which draws the most attention.

The conference is crucial because we are in the midst of an unprecedented biodiversity crisis. IPBES, the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, warns that and that this could threaten the lives and livelihoods of billions of people.

COP16 is also important because the global community has committed to reversing this dangerous trend. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted at COP15 two years ago, has been described as a landmark deal. Not only was it signed by a whopping 196 countries (including the European Union), but it also promises to “halt and reverse” biodiversity loss already by 2030. The big question at COP16, and it is a big one, is how this can be achieved.

The agenda is shaped by this question of how to deliver on the Global Biodiversity Framework. All parties to the convention are expected to present their so-called National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) ahead of COP16, though most countries have not yet done so.

The negotiations will centre on critical questions like how the plans should be monitored, which accountability mechanisms should be in place, how countries can collaborate on technologies, and, of course, who should pay.

Resource mobilization is a particularly delicate issue. COP15 established that high-income countries should mobilize USD 30 billion for low-income countries by 2030. A Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) was set up last year, but there are different views on how it should operate.

The Global Biodiversity Framework consists of four goals for 2050 and 23 targets for 2030. The most well-known target is the “30×30” formula, which aims to conserve 30% of the world’s land, waters and seas by 2030.

The challenge now is how to monitor and measure progress. Each target needs clear indicators. Target 16 aims to reduce the global footprint of consumption equitably by 2030. SEI York’s Sustainable Consumption and Production team has developed the Global Environmental Impacts of Consumption (GEIC) Indicator to track the impact of consumption on biodiversity as part of this effort.

The success of the Global Biodiversity Framework really hinges on our ability to measure and monitor biodiversity loss, identify its drivers, and quantify the benefits of different interventions so that we can take appropriate action.

Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth and has adopted the theme “Peace with Nature.” The presidency has declared this to be a “people’s COP,” emphasizing the role of local communities and Indigenous Peoples. COP15 was seen as a step forward in recognizing Indigenous knowledge as a cornerstone of biodiversity protection, but the reality on the ground is often very different. Environmental defenders, especially in Latin America, face growing threats and violence, and COP16 offers an opportunity to shine a light on this.

Colombia is encouraging grassroot involvement, and the conference’s Green Zone, which is open to the public, is expected to host 150 000 participants. This is approximately ten times the number accredited to the official Blue Zone for negotiators and delegations.

Research will play a crucial role in implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework. We still need a better scientific understanding of many topics, such as the potential cascading impacts of the biodiversity and climate crisis. However, in many areas, there is already robust science that could help decision-makers, we just need to ensure the results and policy recommendations are accessible.

SEI is actively contributing to this effort. At COP16, we will share knowledge on topics like tracking the biodiversity impact of consumption, strengthening the bioeconomy, community-led coastal resilience, and governance of both land and ocean. About 18 SEI colleagues will attend COP16, with many from SEI’s Latin America centre, but also from our centres in Africa, the US, UK and Headquarters. We will organize side events in both the Blue Zone and Green Zone, participate in events organized by others, and attend various meetings. More details can be found on the continuously updated web page SEI at CBD COP16.

Yes, SEI will provide frequent updates and commentary in both English and Spanish, so make sure to follow our website and social media channels. Although the negotiations take place behind closed doors, broadcasts will be available from sources such as UN TV and organizers like The Nature Positive Pavilion.