The first two days of COP16 have set the tone for an ambitious conference focused on turning the commitments of the Kunming-Montreal Agreement into tangible outcomes. Two years after this historic accord, which established clear biodiversity protection goals, the 16th Conference of the Parties stands out as a critical step toward integrated implementation, bringing together nature and climate agendas.
This COP holds particular significance for me, as it marks my sixth participation since 2008. Over the years, I’ve witnessed a clear evolution: this edition not only seeks to consolidate past achievements but also aims to lay the groundwork for COP30, where biodiversity and climate will finally be fully integrated. This vision offers hope in a context where biodiversity, under siege, demands coordinated global responses.
During these initial days, much attention has been given to National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs). While these frameworks are vital for translating global commitments into local actions, their success depends on key support mechanisms: technology transfer, enhanced international cooperation, and substantial resource mobilization. These factors are especially crucial for countries facing conflict or resource shortages. Without them, implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) would remain an incomplete endeavor.
My discussions with Colombia’s Ministry of Justice and representatives from the Environmental and Water Police highlighted the urgency of these issues. In Colombia, as in France, the situation is alarming. Environmental crimes continue to endanger 54 species and severely threaten two major ecosystems. These challenges underscore the necessity of shared international responsibility and the exchange of experiences. I shared European and French efforts to combat biodiversity loss, hoping they could inspire similar initiatives elsewhere.
This COP16 is a pivotal moment. As the first conference held after the Kunming-Montreal Agreement, it transitions from negotiation to implementation. While international summits often face criticism for their pace of progress, their role is vital. COPs not only assess the current state of biodiversity efforts but also galvanize collective action toward meeting established goals.
The discussions, though technical and at times challenging, reflect an encouraging momentum. COP16 goes beyond evaluating indicators—it pushes nations to transform ambitions into concrete projects. It also provides a platform for partnerships among governments, institutions, and local actors, all essential for safeguarding biodiversity and bridging climate and ecological challenges.
Comments are closed