The upcoming COP16 summit in Cali, Colombia presents a significant challenge for the global community in protecting biodiversity.
The goal of safeguarding 30% of the world's land and marine ecosystems by 2030, known as "30×30," was established during the 2022 Montreal agreement.
However, only 29 out of 196 countries have submitted updates to their national biodiversity plans.
The complexity of the challenge is highlighted by the varying capabilities, priorities, and circumstances of different countries in implementing effective National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs).
A recent report from nature NGOs reveals that only 8.3% of the world's oceans are designated as marine protected areas (MPAs), with only 2.8% effectively protected due to enforcement issues and loopholes.
At the current pace, it is projected that no more than 9.7% of the ocean will be safeguarded by 2030, emphasizing the need for immediate and coordinated action among governments.
During the previous COP15, countries adopted the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which includes the 30×30 goal.
However, many governments missed the deadline for submitting their updated NBSAPs.
Developing comprehensive NBSAPs requires collaboration across government ministries and is a time-consuming process.
While 91 countries have submitted national targets, the full NBSAPs are still a work in progress.
Financial barriers pose challenges for biodiversity conservation, particularly for developing nations.
The biodiversity fund established at COP15 has only attracted $200 million, falling short of the necessary resources.
The lack of financial commitments from developed countries to support developing counterparts is a significant barrier.
Colombia has announced a $40 billion clean-energy transition investment plan to mobilize finance for forest restoration and sustainable ecosystem use.
Recognizing the rights of indigenous peoples and other stakeholders in the development of NBSAPs is also important.
Prominent figures such as John Kerry and José María Figueres have called for immediate collective action to meet the 30×30 target.
Protecting marine biodiversity is crucial for ecosystems, livelihoods, food security, and as a carbon sink in the fight against climate change.
The challenges are immense, but with collaboration and commitment, there is hope that the targets set forth in the GBF can be achieved by 2030, ensuring a sustainable future for nature and humanity.