As the COP16 biodiversity summit kicks off in Cali, Colombia, global leaders and experts have gathered to address the alarming decline in the planet’s biodiversity. With nearly 200 countries represented, the UN-backed conference – set to run from October 21 until November 1 – will seek to tackle the urgent need for global cooperation to reverse the ongoing loss of species and ecosystems, with the host nation at the forefront of the discussions.

The destruction of biodiversity has reached critical levels, with approximately one million species currently facing extinction. This decline is attributed to human activity such as deforestation, agricultural expansion, and pollution. 

Latin America has seen the most drastic biodiversity losses, particularly in the Amazon, where agricultural and infrastructural development threatens already fragile ecosystems. Global wildlife populations have plummeted by an alarming 73% in the last 50 years.

One of the central goals of COP16 is to review national biodiversity plans (NBSAPs), following the landmark Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. These plans aim to set aside 30% of land for conservation by 2030, while reducing subsidies to harmful industries. Countries are expected to demonstrate their progress in implementing these goals during the summit.

A major focus of COP16 is the role of indigenous communities in preserving biodiversity. Colombia has prioritised the inclusion of Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities in discussions, recognising their historical stewardship of nature. These groups are seen as key to achieving long-term biodiversity protection, with proposals to formalise their governance of protected areas.

Additionally, discussions on genetic resources are expected to yield a new framework for the use of digital sequence information, providing a clearer system for compensating countries of origin for their genetic data. 

"This is going to be a great opportunity for one of the most biodiverse nations in the world. This event sends a message from Latin America to the world about the importance of climate action and the protection of life. It highlights the commitment of Colombia, of President Gustavo Petro and the entire country, to preserve our planet," said Susana Muhamad, Minister of Environment of Colombia.