At COP16, UNEP FI will mobilize its extensive network of over 500 banks, insurers, and investors to emphasize the critical role of finance in biodiversity conservation. An extensive programme of discussions and events, including Finance and Biodiversity Day on 28 October, will highlight major initiatives and commitments from financial institutions. Our focus will be on implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework, aligning financial portfolios with biodiversity targets, and promoting innovative financial instruments. By facilitating high-level participation and collaborative efforts, UNEP FI aims to drive the finance sector’s contribution to global biodiversity goals, supporting the transition to a sustainable and inclusive economy.
Key events at COP16
21 – 31 October | Finance & Biodiversity Pavillion
Open to all COP16 participants, an opportunity to highlight UNEP FI members work and raise awareness of the role of private finance to achieve the Global Biodiversity Framework. In partnership with FfB and UNDP. Located in the blue zone.
25 October | Latin America & Caribbean Insurance Meeting
Participation from insurance companies and industry associations from the LAC region, highlighting major initiatives and commitments focusing on the role of this industry in biodiversity conservation, held in a venue offered by Fasecolda and Seguros Bolivar. Check back here for more information. UNEP FI members will receive updates via member communications.
26 October | Latin America & Caribbean Finance Day
Participation from financial institutions and policymakers from the LAC region, highlighting major initiatives and commitments focusing on the role of finance in biodiversity conservation, held in the Green Zone (Event will be held in Spanish).
27 October | Side-event for Latin America & Caribbean members/stakeholders:
Check back here for more information. UNEP FI members will also receive updates via member communications.
28 October | Finance and Biodiversity Day
High-level participation from financial institutions and policymakers, highlighting major initiatives and commitments focusing on the role of finance in biodiversity conservation, held in the blue zone. Check back here for more information. UNEP FI members will also receive updates via member communications.
30 October | High-Level Session
Participation of ministers and high-level negotiators discussing key finance-related topics. Check back here for more information. UNEP FI members will receive updates via member communications.
Date TBA | “Informal” briefing with UNEP FI members
In-person meeting for UNEP FI members participating in COP16 on key topics discussed by negotiators, and the implications for the finance sector (location will be confirmed – please return to this page for updates. UNEP FI members will receive updates via member communications.
Online Events and Webinars
A series of webinars will be organised during September and October to engage the finance sector, raise awareness about COP16, and discuss relevant topics. Check back here for more information. UNEP FI members will receive updates via member communications.
About the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) COP
The Conference of the Parties (COP) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is the primary governing body of the Convention, advancing global biodiversity conservation through strategic decisions at its periodic meetings. COP16 will be held from October 21 to November 1, 2024, in Cali, Colombia. This conference will focus on implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, with nations expected to align their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) with the framework. Participants will include government representatives, policymakers, and stakeholders who will discuss measures to conserve global biodiversity, mobilize financial resources, enhance capacity-building, and ensure the sustainable use of biodiversity. Key themes will include resource mobilization, capacity-building, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from the use of genetic resources.
FAQs
No, UNEP FI cannot support or provide accreditation for COP16. Accreditation is managed directly by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). For more information on how to obtain accreditation, please visit the official CBD website.
COP16 will be held in Cali, Colombia, from 21 October to 1 November 2024. This location was chosen due to Colombia’s rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation efforts.
COP16 will take place from 21 October to 1 November 2024. The conference will feature various sessions, side events, and high-level meetings over this period.
UNEP FI members can participate in events, including Finance and Biodiversity Day, webinars, and high-level sessions. This UNEP FI COP16 page will update detailed information on participation regularly.
UNEP FI will focus on the role of finance in biodiversity conservation, implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), and innovative financial instruments. Key discussions will include biodiversity credits and policy recommendations for effective biodiversity financing.
UNEP FI will provide virtual participation options for selected sessions and events at COP16. Relevant updates and links for online access will be made available on this webpage. Please visit this page periodically for the latest information.
UNEP FI members can keep themselves informed about all COP16 updates by subscribing to the UNEP FI newsletter, following UNEP FI on social media, and regularly visiting this dedicated COP16 page for the latest information and announcements.