EU BIOTRAILS’ Post

🌍Celebrating World Environment Day with BIOTA: Highlights from May 2024 🌍 This past month has been incredibly enriching for BIOTA as we continue to champion biodiversity and environmental sustainability. On this Environment Day, we are thrilled to share some of our recent milestones and insights: Collaborations with Local Organizations: We have strengthened our partnerships with local organizations, focusing on biodiversity hotspots such as Reserva Biológica Tirimbina and the Organization for Tropical Studies. These collaborations have provided us with valuable insights into local mechanisms for biodiversity conservation and trust-building. Regional Biodiversity Credits System: We have presented a concept note to establish a regional partner for the Central American Biodiversity Credits system. This scalable and reliable initiative is a significant step toward protecting the region, which harbors more than 6% of the world's biodiversity. NaturaTech LAC Participation: At the NaturaTech Launch event in Washington, DC, we had the opportunity to learn from other initiatives and focus on Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). We are excited to announce our first agreement with a regional Indigenous and Rural NGO to implement BIOTA Comunitaria, a version tailored specifically for IPLCs. Our Commitment: We are more active than ever in our mission to create a better world. If you don’t see us frequently on social media, it’s because we are deeply engaged in pushing forward our initiatives and making a tangible impact. Happy World Environment Day! Let's continue to work together for a sustainable future. 🌱💚 #WorldEnvironmentDay #Biodiversity #Sustainability #BIOTA #Conservation #IPLCs #BiodiversityCredits #Collaboration #EcoFriendly

This year’s theme “Be part of the Plan” is a call to action for all stakeholders to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity by supporting the implementation of Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as the Biodiversity Plan. The Biodiversity Plan offers opportunities for cooperation and partnerships among diverse actors. Governments, indigenous people and local communities, non-governmental organisations, lawmakers, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to highlight the ways in which they are supporting the implementation of the Biodiversity Plan. Everyone has a role to play and therefore can Be Part of the Plan. What is biological diversity? It is the variety of life on Earth at all its levels, from genes to ecosystems and can encompass the evolutionary, ecological, and cultural processes that sustain life. Biological diversity resources are the pillars upon which we build civilizations. Over 80 percent of the human diet is provided by plants and as many as 80 percent of people living in rural areas in developing countries rely on traditional plant-based medicines for basic healthcare. Therefore loss of biodiversity threatens us all, including our health. We can all make a difference by: Recycling Investing in ways to promote biodiversity Supporting political action committed to protecting and restoring biodiversity Supporting local and regional; projects aimed at tackling biodiversity Educating the young generation about biodiversity, ecosystems and the threats they face and the opportunities to restore them #BiodiversityDay #PartofthePlan #ForNature #22May #Biodiversity #BuildBackBiodiversity #AgreementToAction #KMGBF #HarmonyWithNature #ForNature #ActionDecade #post2020

Celebrating the Symphony of Life: Green Cameroon Marks International Day for Biological Diversity Every year on May 22nd, the world celebrates International Day for Biological Diversity. This year's theme, "Be part of the Plan," calls for global action to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, a crucial blueprint for safeguarding our planet's incredible web of life. Cameroon boasts a dazzling array of biodiversity, from lush rainforests teeming with primates to volcanic mountains harboring unique flora and fauna. These ecosystems provide vital resources, regulate climate, and hold immense cultural and scientific value. However, this rich tapestry of life faces a growing threat. Deforestation, unsustainable land use practices, and climate change endanger countless species and disrupt the delicate balance of our ecosystems At Green Cameroon, we understand that healthy ecosystems are the foundation of a thriving planet and society. We work tirelessly to conserve biodiversity through a multi-pronged approach: Community Engagement: We collaborate with local communities to promote sustainable practices, reduce their dependence on natural resource extraction, and empower them to become stewards of their environment. Protected Area Management: We support the effective management of protected areas, ensuring the safety and well-being of endangered species and their habitats. Scientific Research: We conduct research to understand biodiversity threats, monitor populations, and develop science-based conservation strategies. Education and Awareness: We raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and inspire individuals to take action through educational programs, outreach initiatives, and media campaigns. Be Part of the Plan: How You Can Make a Difference This International Day for Biological Diversity, we urge everyone to "Be part of the Plan." Here are some ways you can contribute: Support Organizations: Donate to Green Cameroon and other organizations working to safeguard biodiversity. Reduce Your Footprint: Make conscious choices in your daily life to minimize your environmental impact. Spread Awareness: Share information about biodiversity conservation with your friends and family. Choose Sustainable Products: Opt for products that are sourced sustainably and minimize environmental harm. Reduce Waste: Recycle, compost, and be mindful of your consumption habits. Together, we can weave a vibrant future for Cameroon's biodiversity. Let's ensure that future generations inherit a world where the symphony of life continues to play in all its glory. Full article on our website at https://lnkd.in/eGjFKJr4

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 As we commemorate the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22nd, 2024, the theme “Be Part of the Plan” resonates as a clarion call for collective action to safeguard our planet’s rich tapestry of life. This year’s observance holds particular significance, as it coincides with the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, a comprehensive roadmap to halt and reverse the alarming decline of biodiversity by 2050. The Biodiversity Plan, as it is aptly referred to, offers a unique opportunity for diverse stakeholders to unite in a concerted effort to protect and restore the intricate web of life that sustains our existence. Governments, indigenous communities, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and individuals alike are urged to embrace this plan and actively contribute to its implementation. Biodiversity, the incredible variety of living organisms that inhabit our planet, is the foundation upon which human well-being and sustainable development rest. From providing essential resources like food, water, and medicine to regulating our climate and maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems, biodiversity is indispensable to our survival and prosperity. However, the relentless pressures of human activities, such as habitat destruction, overexploitation, pollution, and climate change, have pushed biodiversity to the brink of crisis. The loss of species and ecosystems not only threatens our own existence but also undermines the resilience of our planet and its ability to support future generations. The Biodiversity Plan offers a comprehensive framework to address these challenges, setting ambitious yet achievable targets for protecting and restoring ecosystems, promoting sustainable use of natural resources, and ensuring the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources. We at Aqua-Farms Organization - AFO as guardians of biodiversity, look up to supporting and investing in sustainable practices that promote the conservation and sustainable use of our natural resources. ‘𝘉𝘦 𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘯, 𝘭𝘦𝘵’𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦 𝘢 𝘧𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦’ #aquafarmsimpactstory

We are pleased to announce that Savimbo has joined the Climate Collective! Indigenous communities and smallholder farmers have been protecting nature and sustainably managing lands for decades. These stewards of vast forest landscapes are integral to halting deforestation, but they have historically struggled to access climate and nature markets that fund regenerative practices. Recognizing this critical gap, in 2022 Drea Burbank, Jhony Lopez, and Fernando Lezama founded Savimbo. By directly connecting Indigenous and local smallholder farmers in #Colombia to climate markets, Savimbo enables these communities to receive rewards for their conservation efforts. Savimbo offers a range of credits to fund nature positive programs: from carbon and biodiversity impacts, to specific tree and water benefits, as well as eco-tourism and agrobiodiversity crops. Their crediting methodologies are developed by Indigenous People for Indigenous People, and their advocacy efforts amplify the voices of those most impacted by deforestation. “The value of a living tree is incalculable because it keeps in its body the whole universe,” says Fernando Lezama, “galaxies of living beings run through it, from the roots to the last leaf of its crown." What sets Savimbo apart? 🌍 Indigenous Leadership: Savimbo is led by two Indigenous founders and has an independent panel of Indigenous friends,  leaders from over 53 Indigenous nations across four continents that offer direction, support, and fair-trade partnerships. 🌟Masters of their craft: Drea is an MD-technologist and serial entrepreneur with 20+ years of experience in high-tech and hard-science. Jhony is a grassroots conservationist, Indigenous activist, and ex-WWF tracker with 20+ years protecting, studying, and advocating for the Tropical Andean biodiversity hotspot. Fernando is a third-generation Colombian shaman with 20+ years in international Indigenous rights and conservation.  🤝Accessibility & Interoperability: Savimbo offers many of their tools open-source and works with institutions and standard setting groups including Google for Startups Sustainable Development, United Nations, World Economic Forum, International Advisory Panel on Biodiversity Credits, and Ecological Benefits Framework to make sure their tech and frameworks are interoperable. Welcome Savimbo, we are so excited to have you join the Climate Collective and can’t wait to support your team and learn from you! Drea Burbank Robert Senter Anna Lerner Nesbitt Alison Filler Leslie Chao Jack Policar Ana Velástegui  

It's Earth Day and we want to spotlight biodiversity.   "The fact is that no species has ever had such wholesale control over everything on Earth, living or dead, as we now have. That lays upon us, whether we like it or not, an awesome responsibility. In our hands now lies not only our own future, but that of all other living creatures with whom we share the Earth." - David Attenborough🌍   It's important to recognise the impact that organisations have on biodiversity. The concept of supply chain biodiversity footprint is a vital aspect that businesses need to consider in their operations. As highlighted by the World Economic Forum (WEF), over half of the global gross domestic product is reliant on nature [1]. Research from the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative reveals that 13 out of the 18 sectors constituting the FTSE 100, totaling US$1.6 trillion in market capitalisation, are linked to production processes with high or very high material dependence on nature [2]. These findings indicate that approximately one in five companies may encounter considerable operational risks due to the breakdown of ecosystems. Understanding the impact of economic activities on biodiversity is essential for businesses to make informed decisions and take responsible action towards preserving and enhancing the natural environment. By quantifying the extent of biodiversity change resulting from supply chain activities, businesses can find out the areas posing the greatest threat to biodiversity. To learn more about the supply chain biodiversity footprint and how it can benefit your business and the environment, visit our supply chain biodiversity footprint webpage for further information: https://lnkd.in/eV-eTmnd #EarthDay #Biodiversity #SupplyChain #Sustainability Source 1: https://lnkd.in/eWQkjwAb Source 2: https://lnkd.in/e9CPiztC

“We are waging a war against nature, if we win, we are doomed”  These were the words of Hubert Reeves, astrophysicist and ecologist who died last year. Has he been heard eventually? The theme of COP16 that takes place in Colombia between October 21 and November 1, 2024 is “Peace with Nature”. It is the first biodiversity-focused COP meeting since 2022 and the adoption of Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Parties to the convention are expected to show what they have achieved according to their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) and the Framework which set 23 targets for 2030. ➡️ 23 targets. 6 years to go. 1.     Plan and Manage all Areas To Reduce Biodiversity Loss 2.     Restore 30% of all Degraded Ecosystems 3.     Conserve 30% of Land, Waters and Seas 4.     Halt Species Extinction, Protect Genetic Diversity, and Manage Human-Wildlife Conflicts 5.     Ensure Sustainable, Safe and Legal Harvesting and Trade of Wild Species 6.     Reduce the Introduction of Invasive Alien Species by 50% and Minimize Their Impact 7.     Reduce Pollution to Levels That Are Not Harmful to Biodiversity 8.     Minimize the Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity and Build Resilience 9.     Manage Wild Species Sustainably To Benefit People 10.  Enhance Biodiversity and Sustainability in Agriculture, Aquaculture, Fisheries, and Forestry 11.  Restore, Maintain and Enhance Nature’s Contributions to People 12.  Enhance Green Spaces and Urban Planning for Human Well-Being and Biodiversity  13.  Increase the Sharing of Benefits From Genetic Resources, Digital Sequence Information and Traditional Knowledge 14.  Integrate Biodiversity in Decision-Making at Every Level 15.  Businesses Assess, Disclose and Reduce Biodiversity-Related Risks and Negative Impacts 16.  Enable Sustainable Consumption Choices To Reduce Waste and Overconsumption 17.  Strengthen Biosafety and Distribute the Benefits of Biotechnology 18.  Reduce Harmful Incentives by at Least $500 Billion per Year, and Scale Up Positive Incentives for Biodiversity 19.  Mobilize $200 Billion per Year for Biodiversity From all Sources, Including $30 Billion Through International Finance 20.  Strengthen Capacity-Building, Technology Transfer, and Scientific and Technical Cooperation for Biodiversity 21.  Ensure That Knowledge Is Available and Accessible To Guide Biodiversity Action 22.  Ensure Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice and Information Related to Biodiversity for all 23. Ensure Gender Equality and a Gender-Responsive Approach for Biodiversity Action #natureconnection #biodiversity #sustainability #together #nature

Celebrating the Symphony of Life: Green Cameroon Marks International Day for Biological Diversity Every year on May 22nd, the world celebrates International Day for Biological Diversity. This year's theme, "Be part of the Plan," calls for global action to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, a crucial blueprint for safeguarding our planet's incredible web of life. Cameroon boasts a dazzling array of biodiversity, from lush rainforests teeming with primates to volcanic mountains harboring unique flora and fauna. These ecosystems provide vital resources, regulate climate, and hold immense cultural and scientific value. However, this rich tapestry of life faces a growing threat. Deforestation, unsustainable land use practices, and climate change endanger countless species and disrupt the delicate balance of our ecosystems At Green Cameroon, we understand that healthy ecosystems are the foundation of a thriving planet and society. We work tirelessly to conserve biodiversity through a multi-pronged approach: Community Engagement: We collaborate with local communities to promote sustainable practices, reduce their dependence on natural resource extraction, and empower them to become stewards of their environment. Protected Area Management: We support the effective management of protected areas, ensuring the safety and well-being of endangered species and their habitats. Scientific Research: We conduct research to understand biodiversity threats, monitor populations, and develop science-based conservation strategies. Education and Awareness: We raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and inspire individuals to take action through educational programs, outreach initiatives, and media campaigns. Be Part of the Plan: How You Can Make a Difference This International Day for Biological Diversity, we urge everyone to "Be part of the Plan." Here are some ways you can contribute: Support Organizations: Donate to Green Cameroon and other organizations working to safeguard biodiversity. Reduce Your Footprint: Make conscious choices in your daily life to minimize your environmental impact. Spread Awareness: Share information about biodiversity conservation with your friends and family. Choose Sustainable Products: Opt for products that are sourced sustainably and minimize environmental harm. Reduce Waste: Recycle, compost, and be mindful of your consumption habits. Together, we can weave a vibrant future for Cameroon's biodiversity. Let's ensure that future generations inherit a world where the symphony of life continues to play in all its glory. Full article on our website at https://lnkd.in/eUD6U8r2

Today, we celebrate the United Nations’ International Day for Biological Diversity – an event that promotes the importance of maintaining nature’s balance to support all life on earth 🌍. The theme of 2024 is ‘Be part of the plan’ – an invitation for companies and individuals to do their bit to protect the world’s biological health.   As a business with biodiversity at its core, Sappi is committed to protecting working forests while supporting the ecosystems that sustain a nature-positive planet ♻.   As individuals, our colleagues have their part to play too. Sappi teams are working on projects and initiatives that deepen our appreciation of biodiversity. Most recently, colleagues at Sappi’s Kirkniemi Mill in Finland organised a bird watching trip guided by local ornithological society Hakki. Kirkniemi’s lake is home to many species of birds, including egrets, grey herons, terns, brown marsh hawks and sea magpies. In total, the team identified around 34 species of birds, and in the spirit of today’s event, the initiative has enriched their experience and knowledge of the area’s native wildlife 🦅.   👉 Download our 2023 Sappi Group Sustainability Report to learn about how we’re working to support a thriving world for generations to come through a bio-based, circular economy. https://bit.ly/3UKeYf3 #Biodiversity #BePartOfThePlan

2023 was pivotal for nature markets, but what's in store for 2024? Predictions include the first major public corporate biodiversity credit transaction and increased IPLC involvement. IPLC-led schemes gain traction, but a globally applicable biodiversity credit scheme remains elusive. Nature tech thrives, while carbon credits rebound. Challenges include corporate understanding and demand, siloed market development, and potential pitfalls of private nature markets. 2024 is critical for shaping biodiversity markets, with potential for positive change or neocolonialism. Stay tuned for more insights! #Biodiversity #NatureMarkets #2024Predictions