UN Secretary-General expresses optimism about a global consensus at COP16

01-11-24

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres today expressed confidence that COP16 on biodiversity will culminate in a unanimous agreement that will allow for the implementation of the Kunming Montreal Global Framework, a decisive plan to halt biodiversity loss and promote ecological sustainability across the planet.

Guterres stressed that, after meeting with Major Groups and numerous ministers present in Cali, he perceives a strong will to reach consensus. "I have to say that I met with all five Major Groups, I listened to many ministers and there is a great desire and willingness to be able to deliver successful outcomes, and we see a lot of commitments to the issues we are talking about. I am very optimistic that we will achieve a consensus that will pave the way for post-COP and the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Framework," emphasized the Secretary General.

In his opening remarks, Guterres underscored the critical challenges facing humanity in the face of the biodiversity and climate change crisis. He thanked President Gustavo Petro and the Colombian people for the warm welcome and organization of this event, and mentioned the devastating figures of environmental degradation: "Human activities have already altered three-quarters of the Earth's land surface and two-thirds of its waters. And no country, rich or poor, is immune to this devastation."

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for COP16 to mark a turning point to accelerate the implementation of the Kunming Montreal Framework targets, and proposed three priority areas for action:

National biodiversity plans: Guterres urged that all States update and align their national biodiversity and climate adaptation plans with the Kunming Montreal Framework by next year, establishing a unified vision for global conservation.

Mobilizing financial resources: He highlighted the recent commitment of an additional USD 163 million for the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, but urged the international community to increase its funding to reach a target of USD 200 billion per year by 2030. In addition, he called for developed countries to contribute USD 20 billion annually, a crucial step to support conservation efforts in less developed countries and small island states.

Recognition of nature's custodians: Guterres called for protecting and valuing the knowledge of indigenous peoples and local communities, including Afro-descendant communities in the region. He urged the establishment of a new permanent body within the Convention on Biological Diversity that would allow for the continued participation of these actors.

“The survival of our planet's biodiversity and our own survival are at stake. We do not have a moment to lose,” concluded Guterres, encouraging delegations to reach the necessary agreements that will ensure a sustainable future for humanity and the planet.

Author: Laura Díaz Carro

TSTT Press Correspondent

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