Advancing Biodiversity for Community Resilience and Global Stability: Insights Ahead of COP16

Biodiversity is in sharp decline, and the implications for global stability are significant. The World Wildlife Fund has estimated a 69% decrease in monitored wildlife populations since 1970, driven by climate change, deforestation, pollution, and human encroachment. While the moral imperative to protect life on our planet is strong, healthy ecosystems are also vital for human health, food and water security, and climate resilience.

Next month, experts and country representatives will convene in Colombia for the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) to deliberate on global goals and actions to protect the diversity of life on our planet. 

The 2022 meeting—hosted by China—resulted in a landmark global deal to protect 30% of the world’s land and sea by 2030. This year’s Biodiversity COP will focus on next steps to implement the 30x30 agreement, and how to reform global financial systems to support developing countries in achieving their commitments.

In the video above, watch as the Wilson Center and a distinguished panel of experts explore the significance of the biodiversity summit, why it matters to the resilience of communities around the world and global stability, and what investments are needed to advance biodiversity protection.