UN calls for ‘peace pact with nature’ at COP15

UN secretary-general António Guterres called on nations to agree a "peace pact with nature" at the start of the COP15 biodiversity summit in Canada this week.

The adoption of a ‘Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework’ is top of the agenda at the conference in Montreal, including specific actions to be implemented by 2030.

Guterres said that developed countries must provide bold financial support for the countries of the Global South, and called on governments to divert subsidies and tax breaks away from activities that can destroy nature.

He also argued that the private sector should recognise that profit and nature protection go hand-in-hand, adding: “The deluded dreams of billionaires aside, there is no Planet B.

“We must fix the world we have. We must cherish this wonderous gift. We must make peace with nature. I urge you to do the right thing. Step up for nature. Step up for biodiversity. Step up for humanity.

“Together, let’s adopt and deliver an ambitious framework — a peace pact with nature — and pass on a better, greener, bluer and more sustainable world to our children.”

There has been a 69% decline in average wildlife populations around the world between 1970 and 2018, according to WWF, and the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world.

The Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework being discussed at COP15 is expected to include 22 specific goals, including targets for businesses around reporting, reducing impacts, and supply chains.

IEMA has published a COP15 guide exploring the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework and its targets in more detail.

It has also this week published a Biodiversity and Natural Capital Buzzword Guide, which is an easy and quick tool to help practitioners understand some of the most used words and phrases.

IEMA CEO, Sarah Mukherjee MBE, said: “It is absolutely vital that nations seize this opportunity and agree an ambitious Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework at COP15, which could be a turning point for nature in the UK and across the world.

“Common goals for businesses and sustainability professionals will create a practical roadmap to nature recovery, reversing the damage that has been done to the natural world, and enhancing it for future generations.”