Latest news with #CaliFund
Yahoo
24-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Global leaders discuss $200 billion proposal with long-term economic consequences: 'This could be a historic moment'
World leaders are meeting in Rome to determine how to fund the ambitious goal of halting nature loss by 2030. Proposed is a $200 billion annual investment in biodiversity conservation that could shape environmental and economic policies for decades to come. In 2022, countries reached a breakthrough agreement — the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework — committing to stop the destruction of nature within this decade. However, one major question remained: Who pays for it? The first attempt to answer that question in Colombia last year resulted in the creation of the Cali Fund, which would collect payments from businesses that profit from nature's genetic resources. But broader funding plans failed to materialize, with wealthier nations hesitant to commit substantial grants or low-interest loans, especially amid global economic uncertainties. As leaders reconvene in Rome from Feb. 25-27, there is renewed hope for progress. While major public finance pledges remain uncertain, the conference is expected to bring greater transparency on biodiversity funding — an essential step toward securing meaningful commitments. The urgency behind this deal is hard to ignore. According to the World Wildlife Fund, global wildlife populations have plummeted by 73% since 1970. In the absence of reliable financial resources, the biodiversity crisis will only worsen, which could threaten ecosystems that support agriculture, clean water, and climate stability. Beyond environmental benefits, investing in nature makes economic sense. Globally, populations rely on fisheries and pollinators to produce food, with some studies estimating that biodiversity loss could cost the world economy $2.7 trillion annually by 2030. Funding conservation now is not just about protecting the planet — it's about securing long-term economic resilience. Later this year, leaders will also meet at Brazil's global climate summit, where they can form a more comprehensive approach to addressing global environmental challenges. Oscar Soria, co-CEO of The Common Initiative, believes the moment is pivotal. "This could be a historic moment if they choose ambition," he said. "The question is whether they will fight for the future like gladiators or let this opportunity slip away." While uncertainties remain, the push for sustainable funding solutions is growing. If countries can align on financing biodiversity, this could be a turning point in protecting the natural world — and ensuring a stable future for us all. Could America stop using oil and gas by 2050? For sure No way Only certain states could I'm not sure Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
UN talks end in Rome with nations backing $200 billion a year plan to protect nature
BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Global negotiators concluded an extended session of the United Nations biodiversity conference, COP16, with key commitments on funds needed and the institutions through which the funds will be channeled to protect the world's biodiversity. The countries agreed on how they would contribute $200 billion a year by 2030 that was committed in principle at an earlier meeting in Montreal. The money includes a plan to raise $20 billion in annual conservation financing for developing nations by 2025, with that number rising to $30 billion annually by 2030, and on details of the Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims at placing 30% of the planet and 30% of degraded ecosystems under protection by 2030. Earlier this week, the countries also agreed to create the Cali Fund, which will create methods for industries that commercially benefit from biodiversity to contribute to its conservation. As the meeting concluded late Thursday in Rome, participants stood up and applauded the outcomes. 'The applause is for all of you. You have done an amazing job,' said the COP16 president, Susana Muhamad of Colombia. COP16's successful conclusion is the first United Nations meeting in many months which ended on a positive note, as various meetings all through last year related to dealing with the global plastic pollution, climate change and the earlier biodiversity meeting itself failed to reach agreements or left many stakeholders disappointed with the outcomes reached. 'These days of work in Rome have demonstrated the commitment of the parties to advance the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework,' said Muhamad who is also Colombia's former environment minister. Muhamad said it was the collective effort of all stakeholders which resulted in the key decisions being agreed upon. 'Only by working together can we make Peace with Nature a reality,' she said. The two-day meeting addressed issues that were left unresolved in earlier discussions held in Cali, Colombia in late 2024, focusing on securing funds to meet ambitious targets set in Montreal in 2022. The Cali meetings ended without a quorum as talks ran into overtime and too few delegates remained to guarantee that any decisions made had the backing of all U.N. member states. Linda Krueger, Director of Biodiversity & Infrastructure Policy at The Nature Conservancy, said that in Cali many parties felt that funds created to support biodiversity didn't meet the original goals they had hoped. But in Rome, negotiators were able to agree on a financial 'roadmap' that would allow the body to fulfill its original obligations. 'At a complicated geopolitical moment, this is an exciting show of progress and international cooperation for nature,' she said. "Technocratic as they might sound, these are the details that will transform ambitions on paper into tangible conservation action on the ground." Oscar Soria, chief executive of The Common Initiative, a think tank, said the decision by the U.N. negotiators marked 'a positive step' toward funding biodiversity efforts, setting clear goals and a review process. 'However, effectiveness will depend on the implementation of the commitments, the availability of financing and the political will of countries to increase their contributions,' he added. Even though key issues related to funding were finally resolved in the extended meeting in Rome, the COP16 talks in Colombia, which concluded in November, produced several notable agreements, including a landmark deal requiring companies that profit from natural genetic resources, such as developing medicines from rainforest plants, to share those benefits. Progress was also made toward strengthening the role of Indigenous peoples and local communities in conservation efforts. Scientists say biodiversity is essential for maintaining balanced ecosystems, providing clean air, water and food while supporting climate resilience. It also drives medical discoveries, economic stability, and the well-being of all life on Earth. ___ An earlier version of this report incorrectly stated that the meeting ended late on Wednesday. ___ The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at Steven Grattan And Sibi Arasu, The Associated Press
The Independent
28-02-2025
- Politics
- The Independent
UN talks end in Rome with nations backing $200 billion a year plan to protect nature
Global negotiators concluded an extended session of the United Nations biodiversity conference, COP16, with key commitments on funds needed and the institutions through which the funds will be channeled to protect the world's biodiversity. The countries agreed on how they would contribute $200 billion a year by 2030 that was committed in principle at an earlier meeting in Montreal. The money includes a plan to raise $20 billion in annual conservation financing for developing nations by 2025, with that number rising to $30 billion annually by 2030, and on details of the Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims at placing 30% of the planet and 30% of degraded ecosystems under protection by 2030. Earlier this week, the countries also agreed to create the Cali Fund, which will create methods for industries that commercially benefit from biodiversity to contribute to its conservation. As the meeting concluded late Wednesday in Rome, participants stood up and applauded the outcomes. 'The applause is for all of you. You have done an amazing job,' said the COP16 president, Susana Muhamad of Colombia. COP16's successful conclusion is the first United Nations meeting in many months which ended on a positive note, as various meetings all through last year related to dealing with the global plastic pollution, climate change and the earlier biodiversity meeting itself failed to reach agreements or left many stakeholders disappointed with the outcomes reached. 'These days of work in Rome have demonstrated the commitment of the parties to advance the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework,' said Muhamad who is also Colombia's former environment minister. Muhamad said it was the collective effort of all stakeholders which resulted in the key decisions being agreed upon. 'Only by working together can we make Peace with Nature a reality,' she said. The two-day meeting addressed issues that were left unresolved in earlier discussions held in Cali, Colombia in late 2024, focusing on securing funds to meet ambitious targets set in Montreal in 2022. The Cali meetings ended without a quorum as talks ran into overtime and too few delegates remained to guarantee that any decisions made had the backing of all U.N. member states. Linda Krueger, Director of Biodiversity & Infrastructure Policy at The Nature Conservancy, said that in Cali many parties felt that funds created to support biodiversity didn't meet the original goals they had hoped. But in Rome, negotiators were able to agree on a financial 'roadmap' that would allow the body to fulfill its original obligations. 'At a complicated geopolitical moment, this is an exciting show of progress and international cooperation for nature,' she said. "Technocratic as they might sound, these are the details that will transform ambitions on paper into tangible conservation action on the ground." Oscar Soria, chief executive of The Common Initiative, a think tank, said the decision by the U.N. negotiators marked 'a positive step' toward funding biodiversity efforts, setting clear goals and a review process. 'However, effectiveness will depend on the implementation of the commitments, the availability of financing and the political will of countries to increase their contributions,' he added. Even though key issues related to funding were finally resolved in the extended meeting in Rome, the COP16 talks in Colombia, which concluded in November, produced several notable agreements, including a landmark deal requiring companies that profit from natural genetic resources, such as developing medicines from rainforest plants, to share those benefits. Progress was also made toward strengthening the role of Indigenous peoples and local communities in conservation efforts. Scientists say biodiversity is essential for maintaining balanced ecosystems, providing clean air, water and food while supporting climate resilience. It also drives medical discoveries, economic stability, and the well-being of all life on Earth. ___ The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at
Yahoo
28-02-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
UN talks end in Rome with nations backing $200 billion a year plan to protect nature
BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Global negotiators concluded an extended session of the United Nations biodiversity conference, COP16, with key commitments on funds needed and the institutions through which the funds will be channeled to protect the world's biodiversity. The countries agreed on how they would contribute $200 billion a year by 2030 that was committed in principle at an earlier meeting in Montreal. The money includes a plan to raise $20 billion in annual conservation financing for developing nations by 2025, with that number rising to $30 billion annually by 2030, and on details of the Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims at placing 30% of the planet and 30% of degraded ecosystems under protection by 2030. Earlier this week, the countries also agreed to create the Cali Fund, which will create methods for industries that commercially benefit from biodiversity to contribute to its conservation. See for yourself — The Yodel is the go-to source for daily news, entertainment and feel-good stories. By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. As the meeting concluded late Wednesday in Rome, participants stood up and applauded the outcomes. 'The applause is for all of you. You have done an amazing job,' said the COP16 president, Susana Muhamad of Colombia. COP16's successful conclusion is the first United Nations meeting in many months which ended on a positive note, as various meetings all through last year related to dealing with the global plastic pollution, climate change and the earlier biodiversity meeting itself failed to reach agreements or left many stakeholders disappointed with the outcomes reached. 'These days of work in Rome have demonstrated the commitment of the parties to advance the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework,' said Muhamad who is also Colombia's former environment minister. Muhamad said it was the collective effort of all stakeholders which resulted in the key decisions being agreed upon. 'Only by working together can we make Peace with Nature a reality,' she said. The two-day meeting addressed issues that were left unresolved in earlier discussions held in Cali, Colombia in late 2024, focusing on securing funds to meet ambitious targets set in Montreal in 2022. The Cali meetings ended without a quorum as talks ran into overtime and too few delegates remained to guarantee that any decisions made had the backing of all U.N. member states. Linda Krueger, Director of Biodiversity & Infrastructure Policy at The Nature Conservancy, said that in Cali many parties felt that funds created to support biodiversity didn't meet the original goals they had hoped. But in Rome, negotiators were able to agree on a financial 'roadmap' that would allow the body to fulfill its original obligations. 'At a complicated geopolitical moment, this is an exciting show of progress and international cooperation for nature,' she said. "Technocratic as they might sound, these are the details that will transform ambitions on paper into tangible conservation action on the ground." Oscar Soria, chief executive of The Common Initiative, a think tank, said the decision by the U.N. negotiators marked 'a positive step' toward funding biodiversity efforts, setting clear goals and a review process. 'However, effectiveness will depend on the implementation of the commitments, the availability of financing and the political will of countries to increase their contributions,' he added. Even though key issues related to funding were finally resolved in the extended meeting in Rome, the COP16 talks in Colombia, which concluded in November, produced several notable agreements, including a landmark deal requiring companies that profit from natural genetic resources, such as developing medicines from rainforest plants, to share those benefits. Progress was also made toward strengthening the role of Indigenous peoples and local communities in conservation efforts. Scientists say biodiversity is essential for maintaining balanced ecosystems, providing clean air, water and food while supporting climate resilience. It also drives medical discoveries, economic stability, and the well-being of all life on Earth. ___ The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at
The Hill
28-02-2025
- Politics
- The Hill
UN talks end in Rome with nations backing $200 billion a year plan to protect nature
BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Global negotiators concluded an extended session of the United Nations biodiversity conference, COP16, with key commitments on funds needed and the institutions through which the funds will be channeled to protect the world's biodiversity. The countries agreed on how they would contribute $200 billion a year by 2030 that was committed in principle at an earlier meeting in Montreal. The money includes a plan to raise $20 billion in annual conservation financing for developing nations by 2025, with that number rising to $30 billion annually by 2030, and on details of the Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims at placing 30% of the planet and 30% of degraded ecosystems under protection by 2030. Earlier this week, the countries also agreed to create the Cali Fund, which will create methods for industries that commercially benefit from biodiversity to contribute to its conservation. As the meeting concluded late Wednesday in Rome, participants stood up and applauded the outcomes. 'The applause is for all of you. You have done an amazing job,' said the COP16 president, Susana Muhamad of Colombia. COP16's successful conclusion is the first United Nations meeting in many months which ended on a positive note, as various meetings all through last year related to dealing with the global plastic pollution, climate change and the earlier biodiversity meeting itself failed to reach agreements or left many stakeholders disappointed with the outcomes reached. 'These days of work in Rome have demonstrated the commitment of the parties to advance the implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework,' said Muhamad who is also Colombia's former environment minister. Muhamad said it was the collective effort of all stakeholders which resulted in the key decisions being agreed upon. 'Only by working together can we make Peace with Nature a reality,' she said. The two-day meeting addressed issues that were left unresolved in earlier discussions held in Cali, Colombia in late 2024, focusing on securing funds to meet ambitious targets set in Montreal in 2022. The Cali meetings ended without a quorum as talks ran into overtime and too few delegates remained to guarantee that any decisions made had the backing of all U.N. member states. Linda Krueger, Director of Biodiversity & Infrastructure Policy at The Nature Conservancy, said that in Cali many parties felt that funds created to support biodiversity didn't meet the original goals they had hoped. But in Rome, negotiators were able to agree on a financial 'roadmap' that would allow the body to fulfill its original obligations. 'At a complicated geopolitical moment, this is an exciting show of progress and international cooperation for nature,' she said. 'Technocratic as they might sound, these are the details that will transform ambitions on paper into tangible conservation action on the ground.' Oscar Soria, chief executive of The Common Initiative, a think tank, said the decision by the U.N. negotiators marked 'a positive step' toward funding biodiversity efforts, setting clear goals and a review process. 'However, effectiveness will depend on the implementation of the commitments, the availability of financing and the political will of countries to increase their contributions,' he added. Even though key issues related to funding were finally resolved in the extended meeting in Rome, the COP16 talks in Colombia, which concluded in November, produced several notable agreements, including a landmark deal requiring companies that profit from natural genetic resources, such as developing medicines from rainforest plants, to share those benefits. Progress was also made toward strengthening the role of Indigenous peoples and local communities in conservation efforts. Scientists say biodiversity is essential for maintaining balanced ecosystems, providing clean air, water and food while supporting climate resilience. It also drives medical discoveries, economic stability, and the well-being of all life on Earth. ___ The Associated Press' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at
