COP15 delayed for third time

“The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) secretariat and presidency made the right decision. This additional time allows opportunity for a more fair and equitable negotiation and consultation process, and helps to avoid poor decision-making being rushed at the 11th hour.

“Holding COP15 in the middle of a pandemic presents challenges for many, especially for delegates and other representatives from the global South. This revised approach partly helps overcome these – especially given the very low vaccination rates of many lower income countries.

“But it is critical that momentum isn’t lost and that societies transform their relationship with nature and climate for a healthy, prosperous, sustainable future. The upcoming virtual negotiations this month and the talks opening in October will be crucial for that.”