Colombia, being one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, is ready to showcase its leadership at the upcoming UN summit to protect nature, as stated by Environment Minister Susana Muhamad in an interview with AFP on Monday.
The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the Convention on Biological Diversity, scheduled to take place from October 21 to November 1 in the city of Cali, will be a crucial moment to evaluate the global progress towards the ambitious goal of conserving 30 percent of the Earth’s land and oceans by 2030.
Minister Muhamad highlighted the importance of this summit in placing biodiversity at the forefront of the global political agenda. Over 100 ministers and 12 heads of state, including Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Mexico’s incoming president Claudia Sheinbaum, are expected to attend.
Colombia’s rich biodiversity, which includes diverse species and ecosystems from the Andes to the Amazon rainforest, sets it apart from other countries. Despite its environmental challenges, such as deforestation for illegal activities like coca plantations, Colombia remains committed to addressing these issues.
Minister Muhamad, who began her environmental advocacy journey in university, emphasized the importance of building a sustainable future amidst ongoing conflicts with rebel groups in Colombia. The conference’s theme, “peace with nature,” aims to empower local communities and support conservation efforts.
The outcomes of COP16 could potentially contribute to peace and sustainable development by promoting initiatives like eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and conservation projects.
This year’s summit will focus on implementing previous agreements, such as the “30×30” pact to halt biodiversity loss and restore ecosystems. Additionally, efforts will be made to provide Indigenous communities direct access to funds for conservation and to ensure fair benefits sharing for developing countries with genetic resources.
Minister Muhamad also plans to urge developed nations to increase their nature financing to support conservation efforts in developing countries. The goal is to preserve the world’s biodiversity and create a more sustainable future for all.
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