Improving collaboration in the implementation of global biodiversity conventions

Area of Science:

• Environmental Law
• Conservation Biology
• International Relations

Background:

• Multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) form the legal framework for biodiversity conservation.
• Concerns exist regarding the effective national implementation of these MEAs.
• Lack of coherence in implementing multiple conventions hinders biodiversity protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how international conventions are translated into national policy.
• To assess the role of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 and Aichi Biodiversity Targets in coordinating MEA implementation.
• To identify mechanisms for improving synergies among biodiversity-related conventions.

Main Methods:

• Survey of 139 key stakeholders from 88 countries.
• Analysis of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 and Aichi Biodiversity Targets.
• Review of policy documents and outcomes from the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Main Results:

• Streamlining inter-ministerial actions and enhancing stakeholder coordination are crucial.
• Improved knowledge sharing between conventions can boost cooperation.
• The Strategic Plan and Aichi Targets have served to align and coordinate biodiversity efforts.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced cooperation among biodiversity conventions necessitates streamlined national policies and reporting.
• A science-policy platform can support evidence-based recommendations for policymakers.
• Developing a new biodiversity agenda requires improved data, monitoring, and knowledge sharing.