The United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP15) in Montreal just had a ‘nature moment’! 188 governments attending the 2-week summit have chosen the right side of history and has committed to “Halt and Reverse Biodiversity Loss by 2030”! In short and among many points, the plan includes:
- 30% protection of land, inland waters and the ocean - an ambitious doubling of current protection of land and sea - recognizing the rights and leadership of indigenous peoples and local communities in order to make this happen.
- 30% restoration target, because we know that nature can bounce back if given a chance.
- The $200 billion of overall funding for biodiversity – almost double compared to a 2020 baseline
Marco Lambertini, one of CEMS Strategic Board Members and outgoing Director General of WWF International, is optimistic that the actionable measures discussed in the COP15 will pave a way for us to guide our global actions as a community. He says:
“ We all need to make history by implementing the ambition of the agreement, with determination, urgency and together. But for now…let’s celebrate this remarkable milestone towards a Nature-Positive world!"
In the same vein and to strengthen the spirit of sustainability and responsible leadership, this year the CEMS Global Responsibility Week will be happening from the 20-26 February! Reflecting the CEMS 2025 vision - to a more open, sustainable, and inclusive world- activities during this week will focus on longer term impact topics such as poverty, gender equality, emerging economies, ethical management, climate change, etc.