IUCN Position paper for CBD COP17 on scientific and technical issues

Key Messages

With 4 years left to 2030, the global review of collective progress reveals that there is uneven progress across regions, biomes and targets and that unless implementation is rapidly accelerated, the targets and mission will not be achieved on time. The message is clear: resources and efforts should be directed towards accelerating implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), with particular attention to targets and areas where progress remains limited, prioritising actions that can deliver longlasting impact and contribute most effectively to achieving the Framework.

IUCN therefore urges Parties to:

• Prioritise the uptake and application of existing programmes of work, guidance, standards and scientific assessments rather than reopening their substantive content.
• Address potential new areas of work through dedicated agenda items in the multi-year programme of work of the Convention and prioritize filling the gaps identified in CBD/SBSTTA/26/INF/15.
• Adopt the thematic action plan to support capacity-building and development, access to and transfer of technology and knowledge-sharing in the context of synthetic biology. 
• Integrate the findings of IPBES assessments (Transformative Change, Nexus and Business and Biodiversity) in the development and implementation of the national biodiversity strategies and action plans (NBSAPs), and other national plans and legislation as appropriate.
• Recognise the need for continued attention to marine and coastal biodiversity, especially considering the findings of the global report on collective progress and strengthen implementation of the Programme of Work on Marine and Coastal Biodiversity and foster synergies across relevant ocean biodiversity processes, including the BBNJ Agreement.
• Accelerate progress on the qualitative elements of Target 3, in addition to the quantitative aspects: achieving 30 per cent coverage will not necessarily deliver effectiveness, equitable governance or deliver lasting conservation outcomes.
• Use standardized, clear and scientifically robust terminology when identifying, mapping, monitoring and reporting on forests. Terms such as primary forests, old-growth forests, intact forest landscapes and forests of high ecological integrity describe related but distinct characteristics and should not be used interchangeably.
• Address the interconnected crises of climate change and biodiversity loss in a coherent and synergistic manner. In the context of an escalating climate crisis and the certainty of exceeding 1.5°C of global warming, implementation of the KMGBF must account for climate-related risks and strengthen the resilience and adaptive capacity of biodiversity and ecosystems, if they are to support climate adaptation and mitigation.