The 16th United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (COP16) recently concluded in Cali, Colombia, marking a significant step in addressing biodiversity loss. Key agreements were reached, but the negotiations fell short of resolving the critical issue of funding. With discussions running only a few hours past their scheduled end, the conference adjourned with plans to resume discussions at a future date.
Among the milestones achieved, COP16 introduced measures to hold corporations accountable for their environmental impact, requiring companies profiting from biodiversity—such as those in agriculture and cosmetics—to contribute to conservation efforts. However, wealthy nations’ pledges to fund global biodiversity protection efforts did not meet expectations, leaving significant financial gaps to be addressed
In a striking call to action, Greenpeace organised a public demonstration in Cali’s Panamericano Park to coincide with the International Day of Climate Action. The event featured a giant 121-piece jigsaw puzzle symbolising the urgency of tackling climate change and biodiversity loss. The puzzle, accompanied by the message “Nature can’t wait,” highlighted the interconnectedness of these global challenges and urged COP16 representatives to take immediate and decisive action. The demonstration served as a vivid reminder of the stakes involved in biodiversity conservation and climate mitigation
Despite the progress made, COP16’s inability to finalise funding agreements underscores the challenges of achieving global consensus on biodiversity protection. As negotiations are set to continue, the pressure remains on nations to bridge financial gaps and deliver on promises to protect the planet’s ecosystems.