In the run-up to OEWG3 and the resumed meetings to take place in Geneva in March, UNEA-5 puts nature at the heart of the global economic recovery and sustainable development discussions.
Out of the several flagship events organized, the event on the 1st March 2022 under the theme “Delivering the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework: Facilitating Early, Effective and Inclusive Implementation” was closely followed by the Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework-EU support project.
“As young people WE ARE READY to be engaged and take action on the ground. Are THE OTHER stakeholders ready to engage with the youth?” Kevin Lunzalu, GYBN Kenya
The theme “Strengthening Actions for Nature to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals” highlights the pivotal role nature plays in our lives and in social, economic and environmental sustainable development.
Nature is key to meeting the ambitions of the 2030 Agenda adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015. The 2030 Agenda aims to end poverty and conflict, build just and inclusive societies, and ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) build the framework for how countries can achieve this.
“In the implementation of the GBF, governments should create the incentives and policies by which all public and private investments are aligned with the GBF.” Carlos Rodriguez, GEF CEO
Full of diversity and complexity, nature underpins our economies and our societies. Humanity is destroying these life-giving services through over-exploitation, unchecked development and climate change. Collectively we need to protect and restore our natural world.
“Support to local collaborative actions on the ground from IPLCs, women and youth should be at the forefront of the GBF.” Abigail Kitma, Tebtebba Foundation
UNEA-5 emphasizes that we have the knowledge, technology and the resources to make the transition to a nature-positive future that will benefit our health, our economies and our future. Now is the time to act for nature.
“We need to change our economy from nature depletion to nature regeneration.” Vicki Benjamin CEO of Karner Blue Capital
“30 years after Rio, there is a window to do something very different at a national and influential level.” Severn Cullis-Suzuki, Executive Director, David Suzuki Foundation
This flagship side event convened two thematic panel discussions:
- on the key steps required to ensure that the post-2020 GBF translates into action and delivers on its ambitious and transformative vision,
- on ways to support early implementation of the framework.
“Our survival is impossible without intact landscapes & seascapes. Our lives and economies are embedded in nature and ecosystem services.” Kaddu Sebunya, African Wildlife Foundation CEO
To ensure a lively discussion, each panel featured a combination of representatives from governments, the United Nations and other international organizations, IPLCs, business and financial institutions and civil society.
Beyond this event, 26 side events are planned including 5 other flagship events.
Check the overall programme here.
