COP16, the largest biodiversity summit to date, gathered 40,000+ participants in Cali, Colombia, to shape global conservation efforts. Key outcomes included:
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Cali Fund: New financing mechanism for biodiversity via Digital Sequence Information (DSI).
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Indigenous Representation: Creation of a subsidiary body recognising indigenous leadership in conservation.
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Scientific Cooperation: Establishment of regional Centers for Scientific & Technical Cooperation.
Unresolved issues will be addressed at COP16.2 in Rome (Feb 25–27 2025), focusing on biodiversity funding, monitoring frameworks, and GEF guidance for future conservation efforts.
Science-Policy Interface in Focus: Horizon Europe Projects Take the Lead
Beyond high-level negotiations, COP16 provided an invaluable platform for biodiversity specialists, researchers, and policymakers to exchange knowledge and strengthen global cooperation. In this context, the Horizon Europe projects CO-OP4CBD, BioAgora, RESPIN, and Biodiversa+ joined forces to emphasise the critical role of the Science-Policy Interface (SPI) in shaping effective biodiversity policies under the CBD framework.
The four projects co-organized two side events at the EU Pavilion, each dedicated to advancing the integration of scientific research into biodiversity governance.
Side Event 1: Discussion on the SPI Landscape & the Role of SPIs in Supporting the Implementation and Monitoring of the KM-GBF
Date: 25 October 2024
Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqQKDG-0wLI
This session explored how Science-Policy Interfaces contribute to the effective monitoring and implementation of the KM-GBF. Experts from the four projects highlighted the need for evidence-based decision-making and how SPIs can bridge the gap between research and policy.
Side Event 2: SPI Contribution to the Subjects of Biodiversity & Health and Biodiversity & Climate Change
Date: 31 October 2024
Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZerUl23vvE
Focusing on the interconnectedness of biodiversity, health, and climate change, this session examined how SPIs can inform holistic, knowledge-driven policies that address environmental and public health challenges. Discussions underscored the need for cross-sectoral collaboration to meet biodiversity and climate targets.
Strengthening Project Synergies and Outreach at COP16
In addition to the side events, the CO-OP4CBD, BioAgora, RESPIN, and Biodiversa+ projects conducted a joint press conference, reinforcing their mission to strengthen the science-policy dialogue. The projects also ensured high visibility at COP16 through the dissemination of promotional materials, including brochures, one-pagers, and stickers, engaging with policymakers, researchers, and civil society representatives.
As the world prepares for COP16.2 in Rome, the role of science in biodiversity policy remains more crucial than ever. The four projects continue to foster collaboration and provide evidence-based insights to shape the future of biodiversity governance.
Stay Connected
For further information and updates, follow the projects on their public outreach channels:
CO-OP4CBD
Website: https://coop4cbd.eu/
LinkedIn: @CO-OP4CBD
Bluesky: @coop4cbd.eu
BioAgora
Website: https://bioagora.eu/
LinkedIn: @BioAgora Project
Bluesky: @bioagora.eu
RESPIN
Website: https://respin-project.eu/
LinkedIn: @RESPIN project
X: @RespinProject
Biodiversa+
Website: https://www.biodiversa.eu/
LinkedIn: @Biodiversa+
Bluesky: @biodiversaplus.bsky.social