UN Biodiversity Summit Convenes Amidst Alarming Wildlife Decline

Nations gather in Colombia to address biodiversity loss, climate change, and plastic pollution, with urgent calls for action and funding.

The 2024 Living Planet Report reveals a 73% decline in wildlife populations over the past 50 years, highlighting a biodiversity crisis.
COP16 in Cali, Colombia, will focus on implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework's 23 targets, including protecting 30% of land and water by 2030.
Despite the urgency, only 15% of countries have submitted comprehensive plans to halt biodiversity loss, raising concerns about meeting international targets.
The conference will also address the interconnected challenges of climate change and plastic pollution, emphasizing the need for integrated solutions.
Funding remains a critical issue, with developing countries seeking billions in support to achieve biodiversity goals, while current financial commitments fall short.