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From November 30 to December 13, 2023, COP28 was the scene of debates about the impact of climate change in Dubai. Although it started with a significant step by finally allocating funding for loss and damage issues, this announcement completely overshadowed the necessity to include nature and biodiversity in the climate debate.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has repeatedly emphasized the close link between the climate crisis and biodiversity loss, insisting on the importance of these solutions for a sustainable future. The IUCN calls for a high-integrity approach in implementing these solutions, highlighting the IUCN Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions. A recent study by CDC Biodiversité on funding highlighted the urgent need for commitment to nature-based solutions projects. This report provides concrete insights into the funding of these solutions, an essential step to achieving the COP goals.
At the start of COP28, there was a genuine expectation for the integration of nature, biodiversity, and nature-based solutions, given that the final agreement of COP27 encouraged Parties to integrate these solutions to mitigate and adapt to climate change while ensuring social and environmental aspects. The IUCN expected concrete proposals from the Parties to reinforce this crucial role.
Although the final agreement of COP28 emphasized accelerating the transition to renewable energies, it is imperative to advocate for strengthened climate action and a gradual phase-out of fossil fuels. The final decision acknowledges the necessary contribution of nature in the Global Stocktake, but it remains crucial to explicitly include Nature-based Solutions in the discussions. The IUCN was present at COP28 to advocate for increased ambitions, insisting on the necessity for Parties to link biodiversity and climate (an essential link according to IPBES), funding for the Global South needed. The IUCN encourages all other stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society, to do everything possible to effectively and ambitiously address the interconnected crises of climate and biodiversity and support a fair and just transition. The IUCN strongly emphasizes the importance of inclusive and equitable climate policies and actions that consider the priorities, concerns, needs, and fundamental rights of the most vulnerable, particularly indigenous peoples, women, and youth. Despite the progress made at COP28, continued commitment is necessary to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement. The IUCN was present to advocate for the integration of these solutions into Parties’ ambitions, highlighting that they are essential for ensuring a more sustainable and resilient future.
COP28 was a call to action to strengthen global efforts to combat climate change and protect biodiversity. The IUCN will continue to play a central role in these efforts, advocating for nature-based solutions and working with the Parties to build a more sustainable future for all. COP28 was a crucial moment for the future of our planet. The climate emergency persists, and it is imperative to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions to avoid devastating consequences. The IUCN remains optimistic that the decisions made at this conference will effectively address these critical challenges.
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