On October 22, 2024, the CBD COP16 side event titled "Biodiversity Conservation Models and Monitoring Technologies for the Kunming-Montreal Framework" was held in Cali, Colombia. The side event was organized by the Satellite Application Center for Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) China, with the UNEP-IEMP as a co-organizer.
H.E. Mr. Runqiu Huang, Minister of MEE, attended the side event and pointed out in his opening remarks that it is necessary to strengthen international exchanges and cooperation, especially to provide support related to biodiversity conservation models for less developed countries. Moreover, countries that have carried out remote sensing exchanges should provide less developed countries with technical support such as personnel training and resource mobilization.
Professor. Linxiu Zhang, Director of UNEP-IEMP, attended the side event and commented on the reports on topics about "Achieving the 30×30 Target, Sustainable Use, and Resource Mobilization in the Kunming-Montreal Framework." She also provided her remarks on a series of keynote speeches regarding this topic. Director Zhang emphasized that innovative biodiversity conservation models are crucial for achieving the “30×30” target of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). China's Ecological Conservation Redline serves as a global model in this regard, offering valuable experience for biodiversity conservation worldwide. She also highlighted the critical role of biodiversity monitoring technologies in achieving the “30×30” target of the Global Biodiversity Framework. To be specific, scientific assessment of progress and accurate identification of gaps provide a strong basis for effective action by governments and all stakeholders. In this process, scientific support is indispensable, offering tools, data, information, and knowledge to help us better understand the complex links between human and natural systems. In addition, Director Zhang mentioned that research and evidence gathered by UNEP-IEMP and its partners from Africa, Asia, and other developing countries show that community-led initiatives and indigenous practices can make positive contributions to sustainable biodiversity management. High-tech solutions should be tailored to meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, and capacity-building support is equally crucial.
The side event concluded that with collective efforts, biodiversity conservation will continue to advance to new heights, contributing to a future where humanity and nature coexist harmoniously.
