Framework for biodiversity conservation

The International Convention on Biological Diversity in a recently held conference expressed its support for a global goal termed colloquially as ’30×30′. The aim is to protect and preserve 30% of the earth’s terrestrial, coastal, marine and freshwater ecosystems. India, being one of the world’s 17 mega-biodiverse countries is home to 7-8% of the world’s species and by meeting the target could protect its terrestrial and marine biodiversity. It can be achieved by providing food and water security, and promoting community efforts in climate adaptation.

Prof Aletta Bonn, a researcher at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Friedrich Schiller University Jena said that we need to act boldly now, to stop and reverse biodiversity loss. She and other scientists at the Convention suggested three important steps to follow:

The first is, the identification of actions and enhancing ownership- This means identifying the sectors responsible for implementation, like agriculture, trade, infrastructure and others. The plan is to collaborate with different people from different sectors.

The second step is Implementation and mainstreaming- The second step calls for action across these sectors. It requires effective intervention tools to go beyond raising awareness and bringing about real change, such as fixing finance pathways and network structures, which are harmful to biodiversity. The final steps involve assessment, accountability and adaptive management through effective monitoring systems.