Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro announced on February 20 that the city of Cali will host the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The conference is scheduled to take place from October 21 to November 2, 2024.
As Colombia’s third-largest city, Cali is known for its rich biodiversity and commitment to environmental conservation. Hosting COP16 underscores Colombia’s dedication to leading global efforts in preserving biological diversity.
The Convention on Biological Diversity is a pivotal international treaty aimed at promoting sustainable development and safeguarding the variety of life on Earth. COP16 will bring together delegates from around the world, including government officials, scientists, indigenous communities, and environmental organizations.
The conference will address critical issues such as habitat loss, climate change impacts on ecosystems, and strategies to protect endangered species. It will also provide a platform for countries to review progress since the last meeting and to set new targets for biodiversity conservation.
Asia’s role in global biodiversity conservation is significant, with many Asian countries home to unique ecosystems and species. The outcomes of COP16 are expected to influence environmental policies and initiatives across Asia, impacting conservation efforts and sustainable development in the region.
Global readers, business professionals, academics, the Asian diaspora, and travelers interested in environmental issues will find COP16 a crucial event shaping the future of biodiversity conservation worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
