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BIOTRAILS at COP16: A Milestone for Global Biodiversity Conservation

We are excited to announce that BIOTRAILS will actively participate in the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), held in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1, 2024.

 

About COP 16

COP meetings are key global events where representatives from different countries, NGOs, research institutions, and other stakeholders come together to make critical decisions on implementing the CBD, which aims to conserve biological diversity, ensure sustainable use of its components, and promote fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from genetic resources. This year’s theme, “Peace with Nature,” focuses on integrating ecosystem protection with human well-being and reaffirming global commitments to biodiversity.

The Legacy of COP

Since the CBD entered into force in 1993, COP meetings have taken place biennially, with major milestones including:

 

  • COP 1 (1994): Held in Nassau, Bahamas, where the first decisions to implement the CBD were made.
  • COP 10 (2010): Held in Nagoya, Japan, where the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing was adopted.
  • COP 15 (2022): Held in Montreal, Canada, where the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted, setting targets for 2030 and 2050.
Why BIOTRAILS’ Participation Matters?

BIOTRAILS’ participation at COP 16 is critical for several reasons:

  • Influence policy: BIOTRAILS can influence international biodiversity policies and ensure that the interests and findings of its research and initiatives are considered in global decisions.
  • Networking: The event provides a unique platform to connect with key stakeholders, fostering collaborations with governments, NGOs, and research institutions.
  • Knowledge Exchange: BIOTRAILS will share its findings while learning from other experts, facilitating the exchange of innovative ideas and best practices in biodiversity conservation.
  • Visibility: Participation enhances BIOTRAILS’ visibility in the global biodiversity arena, increasing its influence on international policies.
BIOTRAILS Events at COP16:

The conference will take place in two main spaces: The Blue Zone for official negotiations and the Green Zone for citizen mobilisation and participation. We will be active in both spaces. Below are the key events where you can find us:

 

  • Consumers and Nature: Making Trade Work for Biodiversity and Development (24.10.2024) @Blue Zone

Consumers play a vital role in biodiversity conservation. This session will explore tools and strategies to promote sustainable consumption and production globally, contributing to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Venue: UN Hub, Place Quebec (Blue Zone)

Time: 11:25 AM – 12:05 PM

 

  • 7 ways to drive the change with nature-friendly consumption (24.10.2024)

Here, we will showcase the output of the working group for Biodiversity and consumption of the OnePlanet network and its member organisations—BIOTRAILS will be part of it.

Venue: Multistakeholder Auditorium, Place Quebec (Blue Zone)

Time: 4:30 PM -6:00 PM

 

  • International Symposium: Environmental Labelling and Sustainable Public Procurement (25.10.2024) @Green Zone (public)

This event will highlight the role of sustainable public procurement and environmental labelling in addressing biodiversity loss.

Venue: ECCI University, Lobby Theater, Cali, Colombia

Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM

 

  • Towards Food Forward NBSAPs: Enhancing National Biodiversity Strategies & Action Plans for Agriculture and Food Systems (30.10.2024) (closed event)

This workshop will discuss integrating agriculture and food systems into national biodiversity strategies.

Venue: Alliance Biodiversity & CIAT Campus, Cali, Colombia

Time: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM

 

  • Stocktaking and Reflections on Biodiversity Conservation Compensation at COP16 (31.10.2024) (Social session)  

Closing COP16 by exchanging ideas, building connections, and advancing practical solutions for biodiversity conservation. 

Venue: CGIAR’s Food & Agriculture Pavilion

Time17:45 – 19:15

 

 

Stay tuned for more updates and detailed insights on these events on our social media channels (LinkedIn, Facebook, X)! Together, let’s make a significant impact on global biodiversity conservation.