News Nature Action

Spotlight on nature and biodiversity

Nature is humanity’s lifeline. Human health, food, economies and well-being depend on nature. Yet nature is in crisis. One million of the world’s estimated 8 million species of plants and animals are threatened with extinction. Meanwhile, ecosystem degradation is affecting the well-being of 40 per cent of the global population.

The spotlight on nature and biodiversity highlights updates from around the UN System, from partners and others, helping to call attention to the need for a just, prosperous and sustainable future for all.

26 Oct 2024 14:15

From Setbacks to Solutions: How Cities Lead the implementation of Target 12


Photo: UNEP/Duncan Moore

As cities expand, they take land from agriculture and other ecosystems, intensifying pressure on natural resources. While cities are the main contributors to the triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution, they are also where the solutions lie to address them in an integrated manner. 

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) and Generation Restoration cities are leading the way and demonstrating concrete ways to implement of Target 12 of the Global Biodiversity Framework on “enhancing green spaces and urban planning for human well-being and biodiversity”, but the road has not always been easy. 

UNEP will host an event to focus on transformative actions cities can take to address nature loss, climate change and pollution and waste. 

26 Oct 2024 10:05

Locally Led, gender-responsive principles for conservation for implementing the biodiversity frame work

This side event will explore the intersection of human rights and the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. A specific focus will be placed on the Core Human Rights Principles for Private Conservation Organizations and Funders  and their role in ensuring equity and justice in biodiversity conservation. 

The event will also introduce the Locally Led Action principles, a set of principles agreed at a UK government-sponsored conference in September 2024, and grounding the work it will share the outcome of the Gender and Data Conference - Advancing Gender Equality through Strategic Data Insights. 

Together, these principles are intended to complement planning, policy, and decision-making initiatives through a rights-based approach and help promote conservation efforts that serve both people and the environment. 

25 Oct 2024 15:01

Conservation and restoration of water-related ecosystems for peace with nature

Today at COP16, UNEP’s Director of Ecosystems Division Susan Gardner takes part in an event co-organized by UNEP and Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.   
 
Featuring a panel discussion among countries, indigenous peoples, and international civil society organizations, focusing on country-led initiatives such as the Freshwater Challenge, the event aims to present some key messages on the conservation and restoration efforts of water-related ecosystems and their contribution to human well-being.

25 Oct 2024 14:49

In Bhutan, the endangered Bengal tiger is making a comeback

Bengal Tigers stage a come in Bhutan

Photo: AFP/Valter Bernadeschi 

Global biodiversity is deteriorating at unprecedented rates due to the climate crisis, nature loss and pollution. In Asia, human population growth and sprawling development are shrinking habitats. 

Bengal tigers are among those affected, especially as they need vast swathes of forest and grassland to roam, hunt and reproduce. 

UNEP-supported efforts to restore ecosystems in Bhutan, however, are providing hope for the big cats. Learn more about the endangered Bengal tiger’s comeback here

24 Oct 2024 15:56

Nature is fundamental to our health

Every day, our health is shaped by the health of the planet. When nature and ecosystems thrive, so do we. The Biodiversity and Health Action Plan aims to strengthen this bond by providing countries with strategies to protect nature while enhancing public health.  

By embracing a One Health approach, we can tackle the intertwined challenges of environmental and human health and accelerate action on the Global Biodiversity Framework. This plan isn't just about saving nature; it’s about ensuring a healthier future for everyone. 

24 Oct 2024 15:09

How Sri Lanka’s bet on mangroves is paying off

Mangroves play a critical role in sheltering coastal areas from storms, erosion and flooding. They also improve water quality and are one of the most effective ecosystems in sequestering carbon. 

In the aftermath of a devastating tsunami in 2004, Sri Lanka kickstarted a national drive to foster healthy mangrove ecosystems. Watch the video above to learn more about the country’s mangrove regeneration project, which the UN named a 2024 World Restoration Flagship.

24 Oct 2024 13:23

Six species saved by ecosystem restoration

Saiga antelope
Credit: Unsplash/Dasha Urvachova 

One million species are threatened with extinction, which can bring potentially catastrophic consequences for people and planet. Plummeting populations can hinder essential ecosystem services, including the provision of food and freshwater and climate regulation.  

But under the umbrella of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, efforts are underway to revive battered terrestrial and marine habitats. 

Click here to learn more about six threatened mammals, reptiles and birds stepping back from the brink of extinction with help from restoration. 

23 Oct 2024 15:13

Restoration pavilion at CBD COP16

Restoration poster

Image: German Rojas/ Pixabay 

UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and G20 Global Land Initiative have organized a pavilion celebrating nature's comeback story at CBD COP16.

Come and explore innovative approaches from "Play and Score for Nature" to World Restoration Flagships, watch inspiring documentaries, delve into insightful reports and learn how you can make a difference. Connect with the Ecosystem Restoration Hub and like-minded changemakers. 

Also available, a space for bilateral meetings - reach out to restorationdecade@un.org to schedule a session. 

23 Oct 2024 14:36

In Europe's wild Carpathian Mountains, prospect of drought rises

Carpathian Mountains

Photo: AFP/Yvgen Timashov 

Stretching across seven Central and Eastern European countries, the Carpathian Mountains are home to some of the last remnants of Europe's primary forests. The forest has nearly 4,000 plant species, as well as large populations of big carnivores, including lynx, brown bears and wolves. 

As the climate crisis and deforestation threaten environmental health, the Carpathian Convention is providing seven countries with a joint vision and framework for cooperation to protect nature. By applying the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework at the regional level, the Carpathian region is enabling a sustainable future, experts say.  

23 Oct 2024 14:31

Trade Day at COP16

trade day poster

Over 4.3 billion people  depend on biodiversity for their livelihoods, yet up to  40 per cent of the Earth’s land  is degraded. Amid this crisis of nature loss, experts say strong policies are needed to safeguard human health, plant and animal biodiversity, and economic prosperity. 

On 26 October, experts in trade, the environment, biodiversity and development will gather for Trade Day at COP16 in Cali, Colombia. They will discuss how trade-related policies can foster sustainable agriculture, consumption, production and more to support the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework 

Click here for more information about the event.