It is recognised that biodiversity loss threatens the global economy and society particularly by depleting the natural capital on which our society and economy are underpinned. Moreover, poor ecosystems affect the health of the planet and the quality of life on Earth. The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030) has been proclaimed to stop and reverse the accelerating biodiversity loss and to prevent the degradation and loss of nature under a changing climate. \
One of the key frameworks within which this is being pursued is the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), which was adopted in December 2022 at the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP-15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) held in Montreal, Canada. The GBF contains four long-term goals (for 2050) and 23 action-oriented global targets to be initiated immediately and achieved by 2030. These are part of the repertoire of nature-based solutions (NBS) to not only biodiversity loss but also climate change and disaster risks and hazards across the globe.
The recognition of biodiversity loss as a threat to the global economy and society stems from its impact on depleting the natural capital that underpins our society and economy. The consequences of deteriorating ecosystems extend beyond economic concerns, as they also affect the overall health of the planet and the quality of life on Earth. In response to these challenges, the United Nations has declared the Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030) with the aim of halting and reversing the accelerating loss of biodiversity and preventing the degradation and loss of nature in the face of a changing climate.
To pursue these objectives, one of the key frameworks in place is the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). Adopted in December 2022 at the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP-15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Montreal, Canada, the GBF outlines four long-term goals to be achieved by 2050. Additionally, it includes 23 action-oriented global targets that need to be implemented immediately and accomplished by 2030. These targets form part of the collection of nature-based solutions (NBS), which address not only biodiversity loss but also tackle climate change and mitigate global disaster risks and hazards.
Nature-based solutions (NBS) have emerged as a comprehensive approach to address the interconnected challenges of biodiversity loss, climate change, and disaster risks worldwide. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) plays a crucial role in guiding the implementation of NBS. By setting ambitious long-term goals for 2050 and immediate action-oriented targets for 2030, the GBF serves as a roadmap for global efforts in biodiversity conservation and restoration.
The significance of the GBF lies in its recognition of the intricate linkages between healthy ecosystems, human well-being, and sustainable development. Biodiversity loss not only threatens the existence of numerous species but also has far-reaching implications for human societies. Ecosystems provide vital services, such as clean air and water, nutrient cycling, climate regulation, and natural disaster mitigation. The degradation of these ecosystems compromises their ability to provide these essential services, thereby impacting human health, livelihoods, and economies.
The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, aligned with the objectives of the GBF, marks a crucial period for global collaboration and action. It emphasizes the urgent need to restore degraded ecosystems, conserve biodiversity, and enhance nature’s capacity to support sustainable development. By leveraging nature-based solutions, which harness the power of nature and its inherent resilience, we can not only halt the loss of biodiversity but also mitigate climate change impacts and build resilience against disasters.
Partnerships and collaborations are key to the success of NBS and the implementation of the GBF. Governments, international organizations, private sector entities, local communities, and individuals all have a role to play. Together, we can mobilize resources, share knowledge, and implement innovative approaches that promote the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of ecosystems.
By committing to the objectives outlined in the GBF and actively pursuing nature-based solutions, we can foster a sustainable and resilient future. Through concerted efforts, we have the opportunity to safeguard biodiversity, protect our ecosystems, and secure the well-being of present and future generations. The journey towards a more sustainable and harmonious relationship between humans and the natural world begins with embracing the principles of the GBF and embracing nature-based solutions as a powerful tool for positive change.
