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The UN Conference on Biodiversity COP16, held in 2024 in Cali, Colombia, brought important decisions and commitments for the protection of global biodiversity. At this conference, leaders and experts from more than 190 countries met with the aim of a new strategy for dealing with biodiversity, which is becoming more and more relevant. The talks in Cali were held under the theme "Restoring nature for the future", which highlighted the need for rapid action to protect nature and ecosystems threatened by human activity, climate change and deforestation. In this article, we take a closer look at the key agreements and their significance for the future of biodiversity.
The importance of COP16 for biodiversity
Biodiversity is the cornerstone of life on Earth – it supports ecosystems that provide people with food, clean water, pollination, and helps regulate the climate. Yet biodiversity is under threat more than ever. The rapid furniture of species, which is focused on the area of forestry, agricultural expansion, extraordinary, and pollution, has disastrous effects on the world. The COP16 conference therefore set potential targets that are intended to halt and reverse biodiversity losses by 2050.
Key outcomes and agreements from COP16
The Cali conference produced several fundamental commitments that have a major impact on the protection of biodiversity at the global level:
1. Protection of 30 % of the world's land and oceans by 2030
One of the main objectives of COP16 is to protect 30 % of the world's land and oceans by 2030 . This initiative, known as "30×30", aims to create a network of protected areas that provided a safe haven for plants, animals and ecosystems. The move is expected to help improve biodiversity and support the recovery of ecosystems that are key to combating climate change. States have pledged to increase investment in the protection of these areas and to protect ecological and scientific monitoring.
2. Reduction of pollution by plastics and toxic substances
The impact of plastics and toxic substances on ecosystems is considerable, especially in aquatic environments. At COP16, countries agreed on a reduction pollution with plastics and toxic substances on a global level. The agreement includes measures to limit single-use plastics and introduce ecological alternatives. Stricter regulation is also expected of chemicals used in industry and agriculture, which often end up in water and soil, damaging local ecosystems and endangering animal and human health.
3. Program for the restoration of degraded ecosystems
One of the important results of the conference is the regular program on restoration of degraded ecosystems . It is estimated that there are about 20 % and many water bodies are seriously damaged by human activities. This program aims to restore these areas through reforestation, wetland protection and improved soil health. Countries have pledged to invest in projects that support sustainable land and water management and contribute to the restoration of natural habitats for many species.
4. Sustainable agriculture and conservation of native species
Intensive agriculture is one of the main causes of biodiversity loss, which is why COP16 emphasized support of sustainable agriculture . They agreed to support techniques that minimize chemical inputs, improve soil health and use pesticides. this commitment also includes the protection of native and local species that are threatened by the intensive cultivation of commercial crops.
5. Securing the rights of indigenous and local communities
Indigenous communities and local people are key custodians of biodiversity, living close to many important ecosystems and their traditional knowledge of nature is invaluable. At COP16, a commitment was made to secure their rights and guarantee that their voice is valid in nature conservation. This commitment also includes guarantees that local communities will have access to the lands that belong to them and will have the opportunity to participate in the protection of natural resources.
Challenges and the need for cooperation
Despite the possible goals from COP16, the implementation of these measures will not be without challenges. Achieving commitments such as protecting 30 % planets or halting ecosystem degradation requires enormous efforts not only from governments, but also from the private sector, non-profit organizations and society as a whole. Funding is a critical element, especially for the development of countries that often have the most valuable natural resources, but at the same time lack the means to protect them.
Educating the public has the same no value. Awareness of the importance of biodiversity is necessary for people to support an initiative that helps protect nature and remains the impact of human activity on the environment.
Conclusion
The COP16 conference in Cali produced major results and decisions that can help reverse the biodiversity crisis. However, the agreed steps and commitments are only the first step on the long road to a sustainable future. If these plans can be implemented, they can lead to the restoration of ecosystems, the protection of species and the improvement of the quality of life for current and future generations. COP16 sent a clear signal that the world is ready to protect the planet and biodiversity, and showed the way how we can contribute to its preservation. Spring
