Have you been following the 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)? Held in Colombia from 21 October to 1 November 2024, COP16 is bringing together governments, experts, and stakeholders from around the globe to advance ambitious targets for biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource management and ecosystem restoration. This year’s meeting has emphasised implementing previous COPs’ commitments, including the Global Biodiversity Framework’s (GBF) 30X30 targets. These targets aim to ensure that by 2030 at least 30 per cent of areas of degraded terrestrial, inland water, and marine and coastal ecosystems are under effective restoration and at least 30 per cent of terrestrial and inland water areas, and of marine and coastal areas, especially areas of particular importance for biodiversity and ecosystem functions and services, are effectively conserved and managed [1]. These efforts are critical in tackling the accelerating biodiversity crisis and its impacts on climate, health and livelihoods [2].
In connection with marine biodiversity, this week’s Map of the Week, highlights the ratio (%) of Marine Protected Area (MPA) and the national marine waters area for each European Union (EU) country. This map layer has recently been updated in the Atlas. MPAs have been established across the world’s ocean to safeguard vulnerable species and ecosystems, conserve biodiversity and reduce the risk of extinctions. They play a vital role in restoring ecosystem integrity, managing human activities to prevent conflicts and boosting the productivity of fish and marine invertebrate populations [3]. Moreover, as a globally recognised tool for sustainable marine management, MPAs not only aid in conservation but also serve as vital resources for scientific research. When managed effectively, MPAs support the blue economy by helping to sustain fish stocks and bolstering tourism. Aligning with the international GBF 30x30 targets, the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 aims to protect 30% of EU land and sea by 2030. Additionally, one third of this (10%), including areas of very high biodiversity and climate value, is designated to be under strict protection. MPAs are essential tools for protecting marine environments, including vulnerable ecosystems.
Today, 31 October, marks the International Black Sea Action Day, commemorating the 28th anniversary of the Black Sea Strategic Action Plan[4]. This day raises awareness of the urgent challenges faced by this distinctive marine region. In Romania and Bulgaria, efforts to establish and manage MPAs have become increasingly important as these countries strive to combat pollution, overfishing and habitat degradation in the Black Sea [5]. For instance, Romania has established protected zones, such as the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting fish populations. Bulgaria, similarly, has focused on preserving its coastal ecosystems, notably through the Marine Natura 2000 Network, which safeguards essential habitats for species like the Black Sea dolphin and local seabird populations. These initiatives safeguard biodiversity while promoting sustainable tourism and fisheries, enhancing the health of the Black Sea and supporting local communities [6]. Together, they foster regional cooperation and sustainable management, ensuring the protection of vital marine ecosystems.
Wish to learn more?
- Watch Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, address ‘Biodiversity: No country is immune to devastation inflicted by climate change’ at the COP16;
- Follow COP16 news;
- Dive into the recently launched publication ‘An Ocean of Life: How the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development is Supporting Implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework’ by the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030 (‘Ocean Decade’). Launched on Ocean Day at COP16, it serves as a foundation for negotiations and will inspire continued global ocean action;
- Participate in upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference COP29 events via the Virtual Ocean Pavilion, where the nexus of ocean, climate, and biodiversity will be discussed. Register now;
Discover the work of the Mare Nostrum, a Romanian organisation dedicated to enhancing sustainable development education and promoting marine and coastal biodiversity conservation.
The data in the map are provided by Eurostat.
[1] https://www.cbd.int/gbf/targets
[2] https://ocean-climate.org/en/cop16-whats-at-stake-for-the-ocean/
[4] https://www.bsad.bsnn.org/home.htm
[5] http://www.blacksea-commission.org/_environment.asp