6th Science Policy Forum for Biodiversity COP 16 Cali S4

Description of the session

Protected areas have been the main strategy to cope with biodiversity conservation. However, to conserve biodiversity and nature contributions to people and/or ecosystem services, this is not enough. Targets to conserve biodiversity within the CBD have increased from 10 to 17%, and, during COP 15 a new and challenging target of 30% to be established by 2030 was set.  

This new target implies the inclusion of a broader concept of conservation areas, for different purposes that cope also with biodiversity conservation. Indigenous lands, small and large conservation areas not necessarily designated as protected areas, contributing to connectivity and sustainable management of natural ecosystems, will have to come to add for this target.

Aside from coverage, effective management is an important and key issue that comes along with governance and inclusiveness and respect for local, rural and indigenous populations.

Worldwide, the 30 x 30 target is raising a number of questions, especially in rich biodiversity countries. Some of the questions that will be addressed in this session are: Does the target conflict with development targets? Land sharing versus land sparring? Post-colonial effects of global ideas imposing land-use on traditional communities?  How can we assure effective conservation?  Do indigenous lands count? How to finance it? What participatory processes can assure integrated planning and assure acceptance?