COP 16: Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Cali, Colombia

 Introduction

The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP 16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was held in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1, 2024. This conference marked a significant step in global efforts to address biodiversity loss and implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Key Objectives

  • Implementation of KMGBF: To operationalize the multilateral mechanism for the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the use of Digital Sequence Information (DSI) on genetic resources.

  • Resource Mobilization: To mobilize additional resources for biodiversity protection and ensure timely delivery where needed.

  • Indigenous and Local Community Involvement: To recognize and leverage the contributions of indigenous peoples and local communities in biodiversity conservation.

Major Outcomes

  • Cali Fund: Establishment of a new global fund dedicated to sharing the benefits derived from using DSI from genetic resources.

  • Inclusion of Indigenous Groups: Setting up a subsidiary body to include indigenous groups and peoples in discussions around conservation and biodiversity.

  • Benefit-Sharing Mechanism: Agreement on a mechanism for benefit-sharing from the use of DSI, although details on contributions and disbursements are still being finalized.

Challenges and Delays

  • Finance Agreements: Crucial finance agreements were delayed, risking the implementation of the KMGBF.

  • Suspension of Negotiations: The meeting was suspended due to the lack of negotiators, delaying decisions on a wider biodiversity fund.

History of CBD

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was adopted during the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. It is a comprehensive global agreement addressing all aspects of biodiversity. The CBD has three main goals:

  1. Conservation of Biological Diversity: To conserve the variety of life on Earth.

  2. Sustainable Use of Its Components: To ensure that biodiversity is used in a sustainable manner.

  3. Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits: To share the benefits arising from the use of genetic resources fairly and equitably.

Contribution of India towards CBD

India has been a proactive participant in the CBD and has made significant contributions:

  • National Biodiversity Targets: India has aligned its national biodiversity targets with the KMGBF, aiming for 30% of areas to be effectively conserved and a 50% reduction in invasive species.

  • Green India Mission: Launched with a budget of $10 billion over ten years, aiming to double the area for afforestation and improve ecosystem services.

  • Sixth National Report: India submitted its Sixth National Report to the CBD, highlighting progress in achieving national biodiversity targets.

Conclusion

COP 16 in Cali, Colombia, was a pivotal event in the global effort to address biodiversity loss. Despite challenges and delays, the establishment of the Cali Fund and the inclusion of indigenous groups mark significant progress. India's active participation and contributions further underscore its commitment to biodiversity conservation.

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