November 01, 2024 - The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) marked a historic milestone two years ago, setting ambitious targets for reversing biodiversity loss. Yet, COP16 made it abundantly clear: without swift, targeted action and a redirection of financial flows, subsidies, and incentives toward nature-positive outcomes, these goals will remain out of reach. Achieving the GBF targets will require unprecedented collaboration and accountability from all sectors of society. The time for discussion is over—real, measurable progress must be made. Unfortunately, unresolved negotiation items mean further talks will be required in 2025.
Leadership and collective responsibility at COP16
At COP16, the leadership of the Government of Colombia, under Minister Susana Muhamad, stood out as a shining example of what can be achieved when governments prioritise collaboration. The theme “Peace with Nature” underscored the necessity of building consensus around our shared responsibility for reversing biodiversity loss by 2030. Political commitment is higher than ever before—six heads of state and several finance ministers attended the UN Biodiversity Conferencefor the first time, a clear indication that nature is being recognised as a top priority alongside climate change. Despite this progress, much work remains to be done, and the road to tangible outcomes is still a long one. Business for Nature (a global coalition of 100+ partner organisations as well as forward-thinking companies) clearly summarises these conclusions and key areas of focus:
