The challenge
Many countries have adopted plans to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement , but more need to follow suit. Simultaneously, achieving net-zero emissions should not lead to biodiversity loss and land degradation.
There are opportunities to achieve net-zero in a way that benefits nature, but current economic models often undermine this goal. Destruction of ecosystems reduces nature’s ability to regulate greenhouse gases and increases vulnerability to climate disasters, which drive biodiversity loss. Issues like deforestation, overexploitation of resources, and pollution affect food security, poverty reduction, disaster resilience, and ecosystem stability. Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) need to better integrate biodiversity considerations.
Countries should pursue net-zero development that is nature-positive, considering the multiple benefits and financial efficiencies of such actions. This approach supports the goals of both the Paris Agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. While existing initiatives address important climate and nature issues, there is a need for a more integrated approach that links net-zero and nature-positive agendas across both broad economic and specific sector levels.
Our solution
Financed by the Global Environment Facility and led by UNEP in partnership with ADB, CAF and other partners and stakeholders, the Net-Zero Nature Positive (Net-Zero Nature Positive IP) is designed to support countries to measure progress on meeting net zero nature positive goals and targets, and support the goals of the Paris Agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework.
Working in 12 countries the Program is expected to generate benefits towards climate, biodiversity and land degradation by supporting ambitious target setting, enhancing policy coherence, cross-sectoral policy shifts, successful finance mobilization, robust long-term monitoring schemes, promoting and scaling-up innovative solutions and facilitating the dialogue and exchange of experiences in support of a more integrated, coherent, and effective implementation of both the net-zero and nature-positive global agendas.
The Net-Zero Nature Positive IP will be delivered through 12 national child projects in: Mexico, Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago, Chile, Morocco, Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Tanzania, Mauritius, Thailand, Viet Nam, Indonesia
Disclaimer: The inclusion of non-UN events on this map does not imply full endorsement or participation by UNEP, UN-Habitat or other UN agencies
For more information, contact:
Co-Portfolio Manager, Climate Change Mitigation Focal Area
