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As the UN biodiversity summit, COP 16, comes to an end, scientists have expressed grave concerns over the insufficient strides made in nature conservation. The political determination necessary to combat the degradation of nature, which incurs multi-billion-dollar economic losses, has not kept pace with the urgent demands of the crisis, according to leading experts.

Representatives from 196 countries convened in Cali, Colombia, aiming to set a course to halt the decline in biodiversity by 2030. This summit on biodiversity operates independently from the COP climate summit, the next iteration of which is scheduled to be held in Baku later this month. Delegates were expected to present comprehensive national strategies to meet biodiversity objectives; however, most entities failed to meet the submission deadline.

Despite this shortfall, one positive outcome was the agreement to raise conservation funds by requiring companies to pay for using genetic resources derived from nature. This summit unfolds against the backdrop of an unprecedented threat to our planet’s biodiversity, with one million species on the brink of extinction.

Professor Tom Oliver from the University of Reading pointed out the cyclical relationship between economic challenges and environmental neglect. He noted that the ongoing destruction of natural ecosystems exacerbates economic issues, creating a perpetuating loop. “Until we have world leaders with the wisdom and courage to put nature as a top political priority, nature-related risks will continue to escalate,” he conveyed to BBC News.

This summit served as the first evaluation of progress towards a historic agreement made in 2022 to restore global biodiversity. Despite achieving some advancements, Professor Nathalie Seddon of the University of Oxford described the overall progress as "undoubtedly deeply concerning." She emphasized the need for coordinated action on biodiversity and climate, reflecting scientific consensus.

Looking ahead, the next biodiversity summit is slated for 2026, underscoring the critical need for timely and effective solutions. Astrid Schomaker, executive secretary of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, affirmed the significance of collaboration among governments, NGOs, and scientists in sharing knowledge and resources to devise effective policies for ecosystem preservation.

Renowned scientist Dr. Jane Goodall stressed the urgency of addressing biodiversity loss to secure our future, pointing out that while governments and corporations hold substantial responsibility, individual actions are also crucial. "We have to take action too. We can't only blame the government and big corporations, although a huge part of the blame lies on them," she told BBC News.

The wildlife shelter organizers highlighted their role in facilitating connections between people and nature, emphasizing outreach efforts as essential for fostering environmental stewardship.

Additional coverage by Victoria Gill.