Climate change is threatening an increasing number of species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Colombia is set to host COP16 on biodiversity in Bogotá from October 21 to November 1, 2024, following Turkey’s withdrawal, the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) announced on Friday, December 15. This COP will take place nearly two years after the historic 2022 agreement in Montreal, which committed to protecting 30% of the planet’s lands and seas by 2030.
Turkey was originally set to host this 16th biodiversity COP but withdrew after the earthquakes that struck the country. The CBD then called for volunteers to host the event on the same dates (October 21–November 1, 2024) or close to them, with Colombia stepping forward. Hosting COP16 is a « magnificent opportunity for one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, » said Susana Muhamad, Colombia’s Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, adding that it « sends a message from Latin America to the world on the importance of climate action and protecting life. »
« Colombia is home to incredible biodiversity, serves as an inspiring example of how to collaborate with Indigenous peoples and local communities, and is at the forefront of biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, » said David Cooper, the acting executive secretary of the CBD. The latest assessment of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List underscores that climate change is endangering an increasing number of species.
