From October 21 to November 1, 2024, the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP16) convened in Cali, Colombia, gathering stakeholders from across the globe to address critical issues in biodiversity, biosafety, and equitable nature restoration. Against this backdrop, four Horizon Europe-funded projects - CO-OP4CBD, BioAgora, RESPIN, and Biodiversa+ - jointly organized two impactful side events at the EU Pavilion, underscoring the pivotal role of the Science-Policy Interface (SPI) in advancing biodiversity and climate-related policies.
Exploring the Science-Policy Interface at COP16
The side events spotlighted the integral role of SPIs in supporting the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF), demonstrating how science can effectively guide policy for sustainable biodiversity conservation and restoration.
1. Science-Policy Interface Landscape and Its Role in KM-GBF Implementation
Date: October 25, 2024
Time: 15:30–17:00 (UTC-5)
Location: EU Pavilion, COP16
This event examined how SPIs facilitate the integration of scientific insights into policymaking, ensuring the effective implementation and monitoring of the KM-GBF. It emphasized SPIs’ contributions to evidence-based decisions that address global biodiversity challenges.
2. Biodiversity, Health, and Climate Change: Contributions of SPIs
Date: October 31, 2024
Time: 17:30–19:00 (UTC-5)
Location: EU Pavilion, COP16
The second session focused on the interconnected issues of biodiversity, health, and climate change. Discussions centered on leveraging scientific research to inform policies that promote ecological and human well-being while mitigating climate change impacts.
A Platform for Dialogue
The two events attracted a diverse audience of policymakers, researchers, and expert representatives, creating a vibrant platform for dialogue. Attendees engaged in meaningful discussions about advancing SPI frameworks and fostering transformative change in biodiversity governance.
These initiatives mark a significant step toward strengthening the bridge between science and policy, driving collective action to address the pressing challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change.
CO-OP4CBD Speakers and Facilitators
Apart from the organisation of the events, CO-OP4CBD partners were actively involved in their facilitation and expert dialogues. Project coordinator Constance Laureau (FRB) provided an introduction to both side events. Project coordinator Nathalie Morata (FRB) facilitated the session on Biodiversity and Climate Change on 31 October. Jorge Luis Ventocilla (RBINS) facilitated the panel on the Science-Policy-Interface and Biodiversity on 25 October.
For more information about the organisation and panelists, visit the dedicated webpage on CO-OP4CBD's website here.