Nations Secure Landmark COP16 Deal on Nature Funding

One hundred and ninety-six nations reached a crucial agreement on a global funding roadmap to protect biodiversity at the COP16 summit in Rome, Italy on Thursday, 27 February.

The deal – which follows stalled talks in Colombia last year – outlines a framework to mobilise $200 billion annually by 2030, with at least $30 billion per year directed from wealthier to developing nations.

The agreement is seen as a significant step towards fulfilling the 2022 pledge to safeguard 30% of the world’s land and seas. However, concerns remain over whether funding will materialise, as current contributions fall far short of commitments.

WWF and other experts have stressed the urgency of securing immediate financial support to halt biodiversity loss.

A proposal backed by BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) helped bridge divides, while additional measures were agreed to monitor funding progress and hold countries accountable. Despite the breakthrough, geopolitical tensions persist, with the United States of America notably absent from negotiations.

The agreement is hailed as a victory for multilateralism, but the real challenge now lies in ensuring that pledged funds are delivered. With only five years left to reverse biodiversity loss, decisive action is needed to translate commitments into tangible conservation efforts.

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