"Cop16: Colombia Prepares To Host ‘Decisive’ Summit On Biodiversity"

"Experts say UN event will be critical for world’s declining wildlife population as host nation pushes for inclusivity"

"World leaders, environmental activists and prominent researchers have begun to arrive in Cali, Colombia, for a biodiversity summit that experts say will be decisive for the fate of the world’s rapidly declining wildlife populations.

The host nation is also hoping that the summit, which formally opens on Sunday evening, will be the most inclusive in history.

“One of Colombia’s objectives is that this is recognised globally as the Cop of the people, where citizens, afro-descendant and campesino communities, Indigenous peoples, scientists, social actors and all sectors are heard and have a broad participation in the discussions,” said Susana Muhamad, Colombia’s environment minister. “This means managing to mobilise the entire government and society in order to contribute to the care of biodiversity.”"

Luke Taylor reports for the Guardian October 20, 2024.

SEE ALSO:

"Environmental Delegates Gather In Colombia For A Conference On Dwindling Global Biodiversity" (AP)

"COP16: From Forests To Oceans, Nature In A Dire State" (Reuters)

"Explainer: Countries Must Report Nature Protection Plans To The UN. What Does That Mean?" (Reuters)

"António Guterres (UN Secretary-General) at High-level Opening Ceremony at COP16 – United Nations Biodiversity Conference 2024" (UN Web TV)

United Nations Biodiversity Conference Website (UN CBD)

Source: Guardian, 10/21/2024