Recognizing the continued deterioration and degradation of the world’s natural ecosystems, world leaders called for increased resolve to protect biodiversity at the UN during October. A record number of countries – nearly 150 countries and 72 Heads of State and Government -addressed the first ever Summit held on biodiversity to build political momentum towards the post-2020 global biodiversity framework, to be adopted at COP15 in Kunming, China next year.
President of the General Assembly Volkan Bozkir said, “A green recovery, with an emphasis on protecting biodiversity, can address these concerns, mitigate risks, and build a more sustainable, resilient world. Doing so can help unlock an estimated US$10 trillion in business opportunities, create 395 million jobs by 2030 and encourage a greener economy.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said biodiversity and ecosystems are essential for human progress and prosperity. “By living in harmony with nature, we can avert the worst impacts of climate change and recharge biodiversity for the benefit of people and the planet.” In addition to leaders, the Summit heard from HRH Prince Charles, who called for a new ‘Marshall Plan’ or a ‘blue-green recovery’ and indigenous leaders who, as defenders of biodiversity, spoke about the need to allow indigenous people to use their traditional knowledge to preserve, protect and manage nature.
UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen remarked the Summit showed a greater willingness to act. “Today we have seen tremendous commitment to act, invest and drive action for a nature-positive world.
