IUCN, through its Members, Commissions and Secretariat, has been actively engaging in the Convention on Biological Diversity’s processes for many years. When the Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted, IUCN welcomed the commitment to conserve at least 30% of terrestrial, inland water and coastal and marine areas. We also applaud the inclusion of distinct components for each of the three levels of biodiversity – ecosystems, species and genetic diversity – in Goal A of the Framework.
We are particularly proud that Nature-based Solutions (NbS), an approach pioneered by IUCN two decades ago, was referenced in Targets 8 and 11 and recognised as a key ally in nature conservation, reflecting similar decisions taken in the other Rio Conventions, the G20 and other processes.
While no 2030 milestones were agreed upon in Montreal, IUCN is ready to help track progress against goals and targets with science-based indicators. We also stand ready to tap into our global network to bring stakeholders together for inclusive and participatory implementation.
IUCN will continue its work to achieve the goals, including increasing awareness of the targets, reinforcing biodiversity data and tools, and further socialising the use of NbS – which all builds on existing expertise within the Union. There are multiple upcoming opportunities to hone in on these issues and ensure coherence in the global policy agenda. These include the upcoming COP to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, and the United Nations Climate Change Conference.
Time is limited for the world to achieve the ambitious goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. But with IUCN’s knowledge and convening power, we are well-positioned to help Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity turn the aspiration into concrete action.