At the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, held in Colombia, the crucial role of associations in driving climate action was underscored. As key players in mobilising resources and expertise, associations are well-positioned to influence sustainability efforts across various sectors. The commitments made at COP16, particularly those focused on enhancing biodiversity, will directly impact how associations engage with their members and contribute to the broader climate agenda.
In a significant development, eight countries pledged additional funding to the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF). Among these nations are the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, which collectively committed an impressive $163 million to bolster the fund's efforts.
The GBFF was originally established at COP15 in 2022 and was formally launched during the Seventh Global Environment Facility (GEF) Assembly in 2023. Its primary objective is to support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, an international agreement aimed at reversing the alarming trend of biodiversity loss by 2030, with ambitious targets for conservation and sustainable practices.
With this latest round of contributions, the number of countries supporting the GBFF has increased to 12. In addition to the founding members, new contributors include Austria, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, and the Canadian province of Quebec. This expansion reflects a growing recognition of the importance of coordinated global action for conservation.
The financial contributions to the GBFF are directed towards on-the-ground conservation projects worldwide, enhancing the health of vulnerable ecosystems threatened by climate change and habitat loss. In June 2024, the GBFF announced its first major work programme, which includes initiatives in Brazil, Gabon, and Mexico, along with 18 project preparation grants approved for other developing countries.
Currently, 24 developing nations are benefiting from the support provided by the GBFF as part of the effort to meet global biodiversity targets. However, the recent commitment of $163 million only brings total funding for the GBFF to just under $400 million, still falling short of the larger financial pledges made by wealthier nations for 2025.
Despite praise from the GEF for the new pledges, experts warn that current funding levels remain insufficient to tackle the biodiversity crisis. A recent report from the UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) highlights the urgent need for increased investment in biodiversity conservation.
While some progress has been made toward protecting 30% of the planet's land and oceans by 2030, only 17.6% of global land and inland waters, and 8.4% of marine and coastal areas, are currently protected. To meet the 2030 targets, a substantial area equivalent to the combined size of Australia and Brazil still requires formal protection. Furthermore, only 5% of currently protected land has undergone assessments to determine the effectiveness of conservation efforts.
Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), emphasised the importance of expanding protected areas and ensuring their effectiveness for local communities. With the 30-by-30 conservation goal only halfway achieved, significant increases in funding are essential. Colombia's environment minister and COP16 president, Susana Muhamad, echoed this sentiment, stating that the GBFF "needs more money" to fulfil its mission.
COP16 highlighted the critical intersection of climate change and biodiversity loss, reinforcing the need for coordinated global action. As countries gather to forge commitments, the spotlight is on the GBFF and its capacity to drive impactful conservation initiatives amid an escalating environmental crisis.
At CAFA, we empower associations to take decisive action on climate issues by offering essential guidance and support, including assistance in developing climate strategies and biodiversity initiatives. By facilitating peer-to-peer learning, we enable associations to enhance their sustainability efforts and effectively respond to biodiversity challenges. Associations serve as vital platforms for knowledge sharing, allowing their members to collaborate on best practices and innovative solutions. By engaging with the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund and similar initiatives, associations can amplify their impact, mobilising resources and expertise for local and global conservation efforts. We are dedicated to ensuring that associations not only meet their sustainability commitments but also thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
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