Biodiversity at a Critical Juncture

In the critical arena of biodiversity, the global community stands at a pivotal juncture. The looming threat of biodiversity loss, marked by the failure of the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, compels urgent action. As the United Nations prepares to unveil the post-2020 global biodiversity framework (GBF) at COP15 in Kunming, China, the need for a strategic, collaborative, and interdisciplinary approach comes to the fore.

The GBF, delineated in a draft last July, charts an ambitious course to curb biodiversity loss by 2030 and envisions a future where biodiversity is not only safeguarded but also revered, restored, and sustainably harnessed by 2050. Its goals span diverse sectors, addressing agriculture, climate change, invasive species, pollution, and unsustainable production and consumption. However, the historic shortcomings of biodiversity action plans and the intricate challenges ahead necessitate a nuanced strategy.

At the heart of the debate is the question of prioritisation. Some researchers advocate for a singular, clear target—a rallying point akin to the 2°C climate target. This proposed focus aims to limit species extinction to well below 20 per year across major groups, offering a tangible and communicable goal. Yet, over 50 biodiversity researchers from 23 countries argue that the unequal distribution of species data requires a comprehensive approach.

The need for an integrated perspective becomes evident as the biodiversity convention's science advisory body convenes in March to finalise recommendations. The GBF's success hinges not only on defined targets but on systemic change across public policy, demanding insights from both biological and social sciences. Past initiatives, like the UN Intellectual History Project, underscore the value of incorporating diverse perspectives into policy discussions.

As the UN strives to craft a robust framework for biodiversity conservation, the inclusion of social-science researchers emerges not merely as a recommendation but as a necessity. The fate of the GBF and, by extension, global biodiversity rests on navigating the intricate intersection of science, policy, and governance. In this make-or-break year for biodiversity, a balanced and collaborative approach becomes imperative, steering us toward a decade where concerted efforts usher in a transformative era for preserving Earth's diverse ecosystems.

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