NGOs

The 10th day of the Rio Conventions Pavilion addressed the theme, ‘Nature-based Solutions for Climate Change.’ The day was organized in two segments. In the morning, participants took part in panel and break-out sessions to highlight a range of experiences with ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) policy making, as well as lessons learned from implementing EbA projects and related nature-based approaches. In the afternoon, EbA Knowledge Day took place, under the overall theme of ‘Biodiversity conservation and infrastructure development.’ The segment included a market place showcasing practical examples of nature-based solutions and how to better align them to engineering-based solutions for disaster and climate resilience. The objectives of the day included: Discussing the links between biodiversity and climate change, including the role of conservation and restoration of ecosystems for climate change mitigation and adaptation; Sharing knowledge and experiences with ecosystem-based approaches to climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction; Providing opportunities to exchange on ways for promoting natural climate solutions in the context of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals; Leveraging partnerships to accelerate progress in raising the profile of the contribution of biodiversity and ecosystem functions and services; Capitalizing on existing work among the organizations specializing in the science and policy of climate change and biodiversity; and Enhancing synergies between the Rio Conventions and relevant multilateral environmental agreements. The Day was co-organized by SwedBio, Friends of Ecosystem-based Adaptation (FEBA), Die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and The Partnership for Environment and Disaster Risk Reduction (PEDRR). Photos by IISD/ENB | Mike Muzurakis For photo reprint permissions, please follow instructions at our Attribution Regulations for Meeting Photo Usage Page Integrating climate change and biodiversity in national level policy Tristan Tyrrell, SwedBio Ashley Dias, Seychelles Isaya Naini Ole Saibulu, Pastoralists Indigenous NGOs Forum, Tanzania Oscar Guevara, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Colombia Kotchikpa Okoumassou, Togo Implementation of ecosystem-based approaches for climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction across sectors Verónica Ruiz, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Arno Sckeyde, Die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Lisa Janishevski, CBD Secretariat EbA Knowledge Day Tom Wilms, Witteven+Bos/EcoShape Veronica Lo, CBD Secretariat From L-R: Thora Amend, Conservation and Development; Tom Wilms, Witteven+Bos/EcoShape; and Mathias Bertram, GIZ Mathias Bertram, GIZ Sandra Müller-Volk, German Ministry for Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) Mahlodi Tau, South African National Biodiversity Institute Angela Andrade, IUCN Around the venue  

A traditional Egyptian dancer The following events were covered by IISD Reporting Services on Saturday, 24 November 2018: Global Biosafety Clearing House Training Workshop for BCH National Focal Points and National Authorized Users Cultural Night-Reception: 20th Indigenous Women’s Biodiversity Network and Small Grant Programme 25th Anniversary Photos by IISD/ENB | Kiara Worth For photo reprint permissions, please follow instructions at our Attribution Regulations for Meeting Photo Usage Page Global Biosafety Clearing House Training Workshop for BCH National Focal Points and National Authorized Users Presented by the UN Environment Programme - Global Environmental Facility (UNEP-GEF) Project for Sustainable Capacity Building for Effective Participation in the BCH (BCH III) Delegates during the event Posted by IISD Reporting Services on Saturday, 24 November 2018 This Training Workshop on Biosafety Clearing-House (BCH) Operations convened on 24 November 2018 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, on the margins of the ninth meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (COP/MOP 9). The workshop aimed to facilitate the exchange of experiences among BCH national focal points and national authorized users and to strengthen regional and sub-regional cooperation on the BCH, while reviewing compliance on BCH obligations under the Cartagena Protocol. Thirty-two participants attended the workshop from various countries around the globe. Frédéric Vogel, CBD Secretariat, introduced the workshop and spoke about the process of merging and updating the 3 Clearing-Houses (CHM, BCH and ABSCH) in facilitating the integration of the Convention and its Protocols. He emphasized that the BCH belongs to users of the system and, therefore, depends on users’ recommendations for improvement. Alex Owusu-Biney, UNEP-GEF Portfolio Manager for Biosafety, stressed that a “good database depends on quality data,” noting that poor results will come from incomplete data. He said that the workshop should be viewed as a “training of trainers” to mainstream the utility of the BCH for national and regional stakeholders. He also underscored that the BCH is an information resource and can help in sharing lessons on improving biosafety. Ernesto Ocampo Edye, UNEP and Catholic University, Uruguay, explained that the training would take place through short presentations and demonstrations; interactive modules, small group discussions; and practical exercises and simulations. Rami Abdel Malik, UNEP, emphasized that the overall objectives of BCH-III are to: provide support to eligible Parties to sustain and build capacity for effective participation in the BCH in line with relevant COP/MOP decisions; capitalize on the training and networking mechanisms created during BCH-II; be country driven; and incentivize government, industry and civil society to appropriately use local, regional and global BCH databases on biosafety information. He described the five components of the BCH-III project, involving: global and sub-regional networking and knowledge sharing for effective BCH management; mainstreaming BCH education packages in all six UN languages; strengthening BCH regional advisor systems as a direct support to Parties; assisting national decision makers and key stakeholders in enhancing their understanding of what should be placed in the BCH; and enhancing expertise and awareness of the BCH in coordination with UNEP-GEF Biosafety Initiatives. Ossama Abdelkawy, UNEP, and Atomic Energy Authority, Egypt, and Edye, facilitated a training module on the Cartagena Protocol that included: descriptions of the purpose and functioning of the BCH; various categories of information available on the BCH; discussions on information Parties are required to post; and when they are required to make this information available on the BCH. The lessons in this module introduced participants to: the application of the Cartagena Protocol and the BCH as an implementation tool; institutional and administrative arrangements; and working procedures and applications of the Protocol, including Advance Informed Agreement procedures, and the first intentional transboundary movement of a Living Modified Organism (LMO). The trainees subsequently participated in a short quiz using an Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique, aimed at testing their knowledge on various aspects of the Protocol and on Parties' obligations. Ossama Abdelkawy, UNEP and Atomic Energy Authority, Egypt, presented the background and key issues relevant to the Cartagena Protocol, the BCH and the Liabilty and Redress Protocol. He defined LMOs as possessing novel combinations of genetic material obtained through the use of modern biotechnology. He stressed that the Cartagena Protocol applies to transboundary movement, transit, handling and use of all LMOs that may have adverse effects on the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, taking into account risks to human health. He described various LMO categories, linking them to appropriate procedures under the Protocol. On unintentional transboundary movements of LMOs, he described the process of LMO notification, the need to consult between transboundary Parties to determine appropriate responses, and response measures by competent administrative authorities in accordance with the Nagoya-Kuala Lumpur Supplementary Protocol on Liability and Redress to the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. In conclusion, he said the BCH, inter alia: maintains data on activities involving LMOs and operators; offers a mechanism for notifying and consulting with affected or potentially-affected states in the event of incidents; informs operators of their obligations; provides appropriate response measures in case of incidents of damage to biodiversity; and promotes public awareness and education on damage to biodiversity resulting from LMOs. Edye then demonstrated use of the BCH website, and facilitated a practical BCH information-finding exercise. Edye facilitated a practical session aimed at encouraging participants to explore decisions that importers or exporters would take in shipping genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Using an example of GMO cotton imports to Mexico from the US, participants explored: country decisions on LMOs under the Advance Informed Agreement; LMOs for food, feed or processing; risk assessment reports on adverse effects on biodiversity and human life; and other decisions and declarations. After a demonstration by Edye, participants also learned how to enter information in the BCH, including how to nominate and manage national authorized users. Abdelkawy demonstrated data entry of risk assessments into the BCH Central Portal. He showed the fields requiring input, including the title, date and scope of the assessment. He underlined that the scope referred to different categories, depending on whether the risk assessment is for containment, introduction to the environment, or direct use as food, as feed or for processing. The risk assessment itself, he said, can either be uploaded as a file or linked to a website. In the afternoon, using the BCH training website, Edye demonstrated how to interact between national authorized units and national focal points to exchange and validate information on national records for LMOs. Participants then paired up to check the status of records and to validate them. Participants subsequently explored approaches for registering information, including on Advance Informed Agreements and LMOs for food, feed or processing, and in reviewing decisions for existing records on the BCH III Project Virtual Learning Environment platform. Abdelkawy also discussed mandatory information required from Parties, which includes the designation of a national focal points, designation of one or more competent national authorities, and the identification of the point of contact to receive notification in case of unintentional transboundary movement of an LMO. He presented data on compliance levels in publishing mandatory information across all regions of project countries and noted very low compliance with the publishing of information, particularly on the nomination of contact points for article 17 of the Cartagena Protocol. Participants, thereafter, carried out a practical exercise to check entries for mandatory information and their accuracy. They also examined laws of regulation for country regulatory systems. Participants’ efforts in this exercise enabled updating of information for countries whose national focal points were present at the meeting. Blaise Fonseca, CBD Secretariat, described new features of the BCH website, including a map showing Party status, and an overview of national records and LMOs. He also presented the “manage” section of the webpage where national focal points can submit records and manage preferences, including on requested records and basic actions such as deleting, editing or duplicating records. He emphasized the user-friendly nature of the new features, particularly on notifications, email alerts, subscriptions, saved searches, improved export data, and workflow reminders to BCH Focal Points. Edye presented two tools created to help Parties share national BCH information. He described Hermes, an online content management tool created by the CBD Secretariat, which enables Parties to create a website by retrieving information in real time from the BCH. Presenting the BCH Ajax Plug-in tool, Edye said Parties would be able to retrieve elements of the BCH central portal for display on other websites. Edye provided a summary on available BCH training materials thorough the BCH Virtual Learning Environment. He highlighted manuals, interactive modules, reference guides, discussions points with answer keys, and announcement and events. Abdel Malik thanked the organizers of the workshop and all participants, reiterating the importance of the workshop in training a cadre of “biosafety ambassadors” to make informed decisions through effective biosafety reporting. Rami Abdel Malik, UNEP Alex Owusu-Biney, UNEP-GEF Ernesto Ocampo Edye, UNEP and Catholic University, Uruguay Frédéric Vogel, CBD Secretariat An introductory module to the BCH platform Delegates participate in an online interactive module, introducing the key concepts of biosafety Participants take a quiz to gather immediate feedback from the online course Participants ask questions as they learn to use the online tool A case study question used to facilitate learning Participants learn how to navigate the BCH training website Ossama Abdelkawy, UNEP, and Atomic Energy Authority, Egypt Blaise Fonseca, CBD Secretariat Family photo of the BCH training group CONTACT Rami Abdel Malik | rami.abdel-malik@unep.org MORE INFORMATION www.unenvironment.org/explore-topics/biosafety www.facebook.com/SustainableBCH3 Cultural Night-Reception: 20th Indigenous Women’s Biodiversity Network and Small Grant Programme 25th Anniversary Presented by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) - UN Development Programme (UNDP) Small Grants Programme (SGP) and the Indigenous Women’s Biodiversity Network (IWBN), with support from the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) A traditional Egyptian dance is performed during the event During the opening of the event, Lucy Mulenkei, IWBN, noted that the SGP has been working with local communities around the globe for many years. She said that IWBN encourages indigenous communities to work with the Network and commended the SGP’s support to the IWBN. Florina López Miró, IWBN, recalled the success of the Network, which was created 20 years ago and evolved based on “learning, support and solidarity.” She noted that, since 1998, this organization has evolved through partnerships, recalling the importance of the SGP in supporting indigenous women at the global level. Yoko Watanabe, GEF SGP, noted that the GEF SGP, over the last 25 years, has supported over 22,000 community-based projects in 125 countries working with civil society, youth, indigenous peoples and women’s groups. She highlighted that the SGP specializes in working with local communities on global environmental issues, while addressing local livelihood issues. She underscored SGP accomplishments, including the fact that 20% of projects involved indigenous peoples, of which 33% was with women’s initiatives, and 96% of projects completed were gender responsive. She concluded expressing that SGP is committed to scaling up local initiatives, while being people-oriented. Emad Adly, SGP National Coordinator in Egypt, noted his involvement with the SGP since its inception, and expressed his satisfaction with the SGP's significant progress. He urged the various indigenous groups visiting Egypt to reach out to local Egyptian NGOs to create acting links, once the UN Biodiversity Conference 2018 concludes. John Scott, CBD Secretariat, said that indigenous women have a capital role within the work of the CBD Secretariat. He praised the importance of indigenous women on a local and regional level, underscoring the goal of the Secretariat to bridge nature and culture. Ramiro Batzin, International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity (IIFB), stated that women hold traditional and historical knowledge, noting the importance of recognizing women’s rights. A SGP short introductory video was screened. Delegates then witnessed the launch of the ‘Local Action, Global Impact - 25 Years of Supporting Local Communities as Environmental Stewards,’ which showcases the achievements of the SGP and its more than 21,000 projects carried out by civil society organizations and local communities. A second book launch took place to celebrate the release of ‘Indigenous Knowledge for Climate Change Assessment and Adaptation,’ published by UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Of interest to policymakers, scientists and indigenous peoples, the book addresses climate science, policy and adaption. With chapters written by indigenous peoples, scientists and development experts, it showcases solutions for a changing climate based on traditional knowledge that has the potential to be globally scalable. During this book launch, Nigel Crawhall, UNESCO, congratulated all participants of the Nature and Culture Summit, stating the importance of mobilizing support for indigenous knowledge in the search for solutions for a changing climate. The ceremony proceeded with speeches from the book's co-editors. Minnie Degawan, an indigenous Kankanaey-Igorot from the Cordillera, the Philippines, noted UNESCO’s call for abstracts from indigenous knowledge in 2010 and declared that indigenous communities “must get out of their comfort zones” and further engage with governments. Jen Rubis, UNESCO and a Dayak from Sarawak, Malaysia, described the book as a “fantastic” journey, saying it was only possible due to relevant partnerships, notably the one with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Several cultural performances occurred throughout the night, highlighting the art of Egyptian, Russian and Sami people. Edith Bastidas, SGP Indigenous Peoples Fellow, also invited people to join traditional dances from Latin America. The celebration concluded with the handover of several awards from IWBN to organizations that support its work, including the Japan Biodiversity Fund, the ABS Initiative, and the Governments of Mexico, Guatemala, Germany and New Zealand. Awards were given to those who have supported the IWBN Lucy Mulenkei, IWBN Florina López Miró, IWBN Emad Adly, SGP National Coordinator in Egypt Yoko Watanabe, GEF SGP Per-Olof Nutti sings a traditional Sami 'Bird Symphony' Ramiro Batzin, IIFB John Scott, CBD Secretariat The event celebrated the launch of the book 'Local Action, Global Impact - 25 Years of Supporting Local Communities as Environmental Stewards' The 'Indigenous Knowledge for Climate Change Assessment and Adaptation' book was launched during the event Traditional Egyptian dances Tatiana Degai performs a traditional Russian dance Participants form a dancing line to celebrate the indigenous traditions from South America CONTACT Ana Maria Currea | ana.maria.currea@undp.org MORE INFORMATION https://www.sgp.undp.org/ Around the Venue Traditional Egyptian items around the venue

View of the morning plenary The second meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP2) to the Minamata Convention on Mercury met on Wednesday, 21 November 2018. Delegates spent the day addressing, inter alia: financial rules; capacity building, technical assistance and technology transfer; review of annexes A and B of the Convention; harmonized customs codes; compliance; and cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO). Contact groups on technical and institutional issues, effectiveness evaluation and budget also met at various points throughout the day and into the evening.For more details on the day’s events and to hear what delegates said in the corridors, see our daily Earth Negotiations Bulletin (ENB). IISD Reporting Services, through its Earth Negotiations Bulletin (ENB) Meeting Coverage, has provided daily web coverage, daily reports, and a summary and analysis report from COP2. Photos by IISD/ENB | Sean Wu For photo reprint permissions, please follow instructions at our Attribution Regulations for Meeting Photo Usage Page Franz Perrez, Switzerland, speaking informally with President of COP2, Marc Chardonnens before the morning plenary The panel during the morning plenary Gabriela Nair Medina Amarante, Uruguay Teeraporn Wiriwutikorn, Thailand Karissa Kovner, US, consulting with delegates from Japan Yingxian Xia, China, and Sverre Thomas Jahre, Norway, in discussions The Brazilian delegation Belarusian delegation Mick Saito, Japan, speaking with Mohammed Khashashneh, Jordan Hassan Azhar, Maldives Mohammad Yamin Chowdhury, Bangladesh Romania Delegation Akiko Nishimae, Japan Ali Sabra, Lebanon Jacques Nsengiyumva, Rwanda Malaysia delegation Carla Serazzi, Chile Franklyn Connor, Saint Kitts and Nevis Bangaly Dioumessy, Guinea Delegates from NGOs Angela Rivera, Colombia Oxana Tsittser, IPEN Vladimir Lenev, Russian Federation Manal Azzi, International Labour Organization Joseph Molapisi, Africa Institute View of the plenary room Delegates in intense discussions during a break in plenary John Kpakolo Jallah Jr, Liberia Endalkachew Tesfu Babayehu, Ethiopia, and Wondeossen Wondemagegnehu, Africa Institute Antigua and Barbuda delegation Afghanistan delegation Berenice Alexandra Quiroz Yánez and Walter Schuldy, Ecuador Delegates from Croatia Delegation from Cameroon Maria Carcamo Pavez, World Alliance for Mercury-Free Dentistry Siddika Sultana, Asian Center for Environmental Health Around the Venue  

A painting made by an Egyptian artist showcasing efforts to engage with local communities to protect biodiversity The following events were covered by IISD Reporting Services on Sunday, 18 November 2018: Capacity Development for the Implementation of the Nagoya Protocol Experiences to Date with the CBD Voluntary Peer Review (VPR) for NBSAPS The Story of Transfrontier Conservation in Southern Africa – Meeting the Aichi Targets by Default Towards Post-2020 Mainstreaming Biodiversity in the Oil and Gas Sector: Good Practices for Biodiversity Management Guidance for Development of Gene Drive Application Photos by IISD/ENB | Kiara Worth/Mike Muzurakis For photo reprint permissions, please follow instructions at our Attribution Regulations for Meeting Photo Usage Page Capacity Development for Implementation of the Nagoya Protocol Presented by the ABS Initiative, in collaboration with the CBD Secretariat Delegates gather during the event Tobias Dierks, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ), moderated this side event, which explored implementation of the Nagoya Protocol and its related challenges. Matthias Krause, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Germany, noted BMZ’s efforts in assisting countries in the ratification of national ABS legislation and in progressing towards ABS partnerships, as well as biodiversity-based value chains. Mery Ciacci, Director-General of the Environment, European Commission, noted the need for a clear and common understanding of the Nagoya Protocol provisions, especially regarding checkpoints to monitor the use of genetic resources. Within the EU, she reported on member states’ progress on collectively developing sectoral guidance relating to research, noting that the implementation of ABS of the Nagoya Protocol is a “learning-by-doing” exercise. Jean-Pierre Ndoutoum, Director, Institute of the Francophonie for Sustainable Development, noted several positive outcomes of cooperation on ABS, including related to raising awareness, conducting training courses with government representatives and local communities, and establishing and strengthening legal frameworks. He noted that implementation of the Nagoya Protocol is key to address poverty, including by improving property rights for genetic resources and building climate resilience. Valérie Normand, CBD Secretariat, provided an overview of progress on implementation of the Nagoya Protocol, with ratification underway in 26 countries and 37 countries planning to ratify. On key findings of the assessment and review, she stressed: that implementation of the Nagoya Protocol remains at an early stage; general challenges include institutional coordination of relevant stakeholders, lack of human resources and awareness-raising; and that further work is needed to ensure compliance with domestic legislation and on obligations related to Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. On reported impacts and benefits of implementation, she stressed increased: involvement of communities in conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources; and requests for information on access and user compliance. Andreas Drews, Manager, ABS Initiative, described a sub-project on ABS-compliant biotrade in Southern Africa, which enables access by small and medium-sized enterprises to new global markets for biotrade products based on national and transboundary value chains. On challenges of ABS, he stressed that custom-fit support is key for effective ABS implementation, suggesting that no “one-size fits all” formula exists. He also identified a lack of support schemes for applied research and development and substantial gaps in monitoring, compliance, and checkpoints in the utilization of genetic resources. During the ensuing panel discussion, Aurélie Taylor Dingom, ABS-Focal Point, Cameroon, introduced Cameroon’s policy options for an ABS system fostering sustainable development. She stated that Cameroon has developed and validated a national law on the Nagoya Protocol, with this process supported by the UN Development Programme-Global Environment Facility (UNDP-GEF) ABS Project. She expanded on the legal and administrative background of ABS in Cameroon explaining that significant measures have been put in place since the adoption of the Nagoya Protocol, including the designation of an ABS Focal Point. She also mentioned the existence of a national strategy and action plan on how to get the private sector interested in the ABS process and the signing of mutually agreed terms for research regarding a genetic resource called Mondia whitei. Henry Michael Ndengejeho, Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Namibia, stated that his country stressed the importance of the current ABS legislation going hand-in-hand with Namibia’s constitution to benefit communities, with a special focus on the inclusion of women. In response to a question about the development of regulations to operationalize the law in Namibia, he confirmed that it is a slow process, which includes the need to harmonize issues of permitting because of the involvement of different ministries. In response to a question about South Africa’s current status on the implementation of ABS, Khorommbi Matibe, Chief Director, Department of Environmental Affairs, South Africa, emphasized that, as early as 2004, South Africa enacted legislation responding to the Nagoya Protocol to address issues on ABS. He underlined the importance of looking into uses of legislation, on the one hand, and capacity building for the people on the other. He concluded saying that South Africa's National Biodiversity Economy Strategy is designed to take biodiversity on a new growth trajectory with three main focus points: economic growth, transformation, and sustainability. Michel Mane, CEO, Mane Americas and Mane Foundation, presented experiences of sourcing of biological material in Africa and mentioned a case study discussed during COP 13 regarding the private sector making value chains ABS compliant. Mery Ciacci, European Commission Michel Mane, CEO Mane Americas and Mane Foundation Tobias Dierks, ABS Initiative Valérie Normand, CBD Secretariat Henry Michael Ndengejeho, Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Namibia Khorommbi Matibe, Department of Environmental Affairs, South Africa Jean-Pierre Ndoutoum, IFDD Matthias Krause, BMZ, Germany Suhel al-Janabi, Co-Manager ABS Initiative Aurélie Taylor Dingom, ABS Focal Point, Cameroon Andreas Drews, Manager, ABS Initiative CONTACT Tobias Dierks | tobias.dierks@giz.de MORE INFORMATION www.abs-initiative.info/ www.cbd.int/abs/ Experiences to Date with the CBD Voluntary Peer Review (VPR) for NBSAPs Presented by the CBD Secretariat Panelists during the event This side event was organized to provide an overview of the VPR mechanism for National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan (NBSAP) revision and implementation, which is now in its pilot phase. The event highlighted the usefulness of the VPR methodology in developing and updating NBSAPs to improve implementation, including through biodiversity mainstreaming. The event also highlighted the experiences and lessons learned by countries that have undergone a review, including Sri Lanka, India and Montenegro. Experiences of reviewers involved in these VPR processes were also shared. Nicolaas Van Der Werf, CBD Secretariat, moderated the event, thanking Norway, Switzerland and Japan for funds and resources for further development of the VPR process. In opening remarks, Marie Haraldstad, Ministry of Climate and Environment, Norway, remarked that the VPR pilot phase has shown potential to become an important part of evaluating progress in NBSAP implementation. Martin Krebs, Switzerland, said seeing how the process reveals countries’ on-the-ground experiences with NBSAPs is encouraging. Van der Werf highlighted CBD COP 9 and 11 decisions, requesting facilitation for review processes for implementation of NBSAPs. He reported on the CBD COP 13 decision, requesting further development and testing of the review methodology, citing the selection of Ethiopia and India as test countries. He underscored that the aim of the VPR process is to help parties improve their individual and collective capacities to more effectively implement the Convention. The specific objectives he highlighted included: assessing the development and implementation of NBSAPs; providing opportunities for peer learning among parties; and creating greater transparency and accountability for NBSAP development and implementation to the public and other parties. The methodology, Van Der Werf said, began once a party has volunteered for review, followed by: the party providing nominees for the selection of reviewers; a desktop study by reviewers; and an in-country visit for verification of findings. The report, he said, is prepared in consultation with the party under review. R.H.M.P. Abeykoon, Biodiversity for Food and Nutrition, Sri Lanka, explained that the VPR exercise for Sri Lanka’s NBSAP 2016-2022, which was carried out by a multidisciplinary team, presented a wide range of expertise for the review process. She underscored that the in-country visit also provided opportunities for experience sharing on NBSAP implementation with stakeholders. Anne Theo Seinen, European Commission, presented the Montenegro VPR experience, saying that the country is a hotspot for biodiversity with several endemic species, which supports a vibrant tourism sector. He shared recommendations from the review, including the need for increased awareness on biodiversity conservation and to step up biodiversity protection legislation, particularly to address illegal logging and poaching. He reported a low level of local ownership of the country's NBSAP and the lack of prioritization of actions. T. Rabikumar, National Biodiversity Authority, India, said the review of India’s NBSAP revealed the thoroughness of the desk study, and enabled stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the strategy. He added that the process enabled sharing of best practices from other parties. During the panel discussions, reviewers involved in the VPR pilot phase shared their experiences, constraints and benefits of the review, and remarked on whether review exercises had met VPR objectives. Marina von Weissenberg, Ministry of the Environment, Finland, said her experience with both the Sri Lanka and Montenegro review processes enabled the identification of strengths and gaps of the respective NBSAPs, from a developing versus developed country perspective. She noted the importance of partnerships between focal points for biodiversity-related conventions to strengthen NBSAP implementation, citing close links with the climate change process in the case of Sri Lanka. Jonathan Mufandaedza, National Biotechnology Authority, Zimbabwe, emphasized the importance of ownership of the NBSAP review by parties. He added that the review of Sri Lanka’s NBSAP revealed implementation constraints that could be helpful to other countries. Andreas Obrecht, UN Environment, said the reports from the pilot phase of the VPR are useful not only for outreach of the review process, but also for improving future NBSAP drafts. On the role of VPRs in relation to the post-2020 biodiversity agenda, Seinen said the review process would help refine the objectives of the Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework. Rabikumar said parties that have undergone the review process would be able to revise their NBSAPs according to incoming recommendations. Obrecht added that the review recommendations can better enable guidance for strengthening the VPR process. Nicolaas Van Der Werf, CBD Secretariat Anne Theo Seinen, European Commission Marina von Weissenberg, Ministry of the Environment, Finland T. Rabikumar, National Biodiversity Authority, India Participants ask questions during the event R.H.M.P. Abeykoon, Director, Biodiversity for Food and Nutrition, Sri Lanka Jonathan Mufandaedza, National Biotechnology Authority, Zimbabwe Organizers of the event CONTACT Nicolaas Van Der Werf | nicolaas.vanderwerf@cbd.int Maroun Abi-Chahine | maroun.abichahine@cbd.int MORE INFORMATION https://www.cbd.int/nbsap/vpr/default.shtml http://www.cbd.int/nbsap/vpr/ The Story of Transfrontier Conservation in Southern Africa – Meeting the Aichi Targets by Default Presented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Delegates during for the event Posted by IISD Reporting Services on Sunday, 18 November 2018 This event was organized to present the Southern African Development Community (SADC) communities Transfrontier Conservation Areas (TFCAs). It provided the SADC TFCAs Programme and Network with an opportunity to showcase success stories on conservation and highlight how putting people at the forefront of conservation enables success stories. Key messages and lessons learned from conservation and development in the SADC region were shared at the event, particularly as they will contribute to the Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework. The side event included three panel discussions on: how transfrontier conservation supports the achievement of the Aichi Biodiversity Targets; how sustainable use of natural resources is mainstreamed in the SADC region; and regional priorities for the post-2020 vision of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Oliver Chapeyama, SADC consultant, moderated the meeting. Martin Kasaona, Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Namibia, welcomed participants to the event, emphasizing that the SADC TFCAs Programme and Network brings countries together to take a wide range of decisions that impact natural resource management for the region. Sibongile Mavimbela, SADC, welcomed participants on behalf of SADC, noting the importance of biological resources for social and economic development in the region. She highlighted the SADC Regional Biodiversity Strategy, which identifies actions to unlock wealth from biological diversity through value-added supply chains. A video on TFCAs in the SADC region was then presented to initiate the session on “The Story of TFCAs.” Ingrid Otukile, TFCA Focal Point, Botswana, Naambo Iipinge, TFCA Network Chair and TFCA Focal Point, Namibia, and Seth Maphalala, National Trust Commission, eSwatini, jointly narrated the story of TFCAs. They presented ways in which the region is progressing towards greater cohesion for biodiversity conservation, leading to the establishment of the current 18 TFCAs in the SADC region, which cover a total area of 4,570,294 km2. They highlighted that SADC TFCA has contributed to achieving the Aichi Biodiversity Targets in the following ways: Aichi Target 5 (the rate of loss of all natural habitats is halved), achieved through landscape approaches that secure wildlife corridors; Aichi Target 11 (terrestrial and marine protected areas), achieved by promoting maintenance of protected areas and supporting community-based conservation to empower disenfranchised communities; Aichi Target 12 (preventing extinctions of species), achieved by safeguarding migration species migration and combating wildlife crime; and Aichi Targets 1 (awareness on biodiversity values), 2 (biodiversity values and poverty reduction strategies) and 14 (restoration of ecosystems services, taking into account local communities), achieved through improving rural livelihoods. During the panel session, Jaime Cavelier, Global Environmental Facility (GEF) Secretariat, presented opportunities for investing GEF financial resources for wildlife tourism in Sub-Saharan Africa. He summarized allocations for SADC in the seventh GEF replenishment, urging SADC members to take advantage of funds allocated for transboundary conservation measures to combat illegal wildlife trade and promote wildlife tourism. Khorommbi Matibe, Department of Environmental Affairs, South Africa, shared experiences from his country’s National Biodiversity Economy Strategy. He reported on three areas of focus, namely, bioprospecting, wildlife, and ecotourism. The strategy, he underscored, aims to increase the contribution of biodiversity to South Africa’s GDP by 10%. He also noted that although bioprospecting has traditionally relied on communities to provide raw materials, the Strategy would facilitate a change to ensure their involvement in the processing of products for markets. Naambo Iipinge, TFCA Focal Point, Namibia, emphasized the need to ensure that the theme of CBD COP 14 is enshrined in the region’s priorities and that benefits for people and nature are realized. Tawanda Gotosa, SADC Technical Advisor, said a number of biodiversity-related conventions have recognized TFCAs as important tools for natural resource management. He noted that landscape approaches, such as those applied by TFCAs, will ensure cross-sectoral collaboration to reduce human-wildlife conflict while maximizing production. For the SADC region, he noted that the Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework provides an avenue for increased collective action for sustainable management in ensuring shared benefits across borders, and the creation of enterprises that improve the economies of its members. He noted the need for resource mobilization to combat illegal harvesting and trade in endangered species, and for remodeling the management of protected areas to arrest biodiversity loss. He concluded by asking SADC countries to promote South Africa’s Biodiversity Economic Strategy to further harmonize conservation efforts. A video is played during the event Oliver Chapeyama, SADC Sibongile Mavimbela, SADC Secretariat Martin Kasaona, Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Namibia Naambo Iipinge, Chair, TFCA Network and TFCA Focal Point, Namibia Jaime Cavelier, GEF Secretariat Khorommbi Matibe, Department of Environmental Affairs, South Africa Seth Maphalala, eSwatini National Trust Commission Ingrid Otukile, TFCA Focal point, Botswana Group photo of the event organizers and speakers CONTACT Martin Leineweber | martin.leineweber@giz.de MORE INFORMATION https://tfcaportal.org/ Towards Post-2020 Presented by Expertise France, with support from the European Commission The room is filled to capacity as delegates gather for the event This side event, organized by Expertise France and initiated by the European Commission, examined efforts towards achieving an effective and ambitious follow-up to the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity. Moderator and presenter Didier Babin, Expertise France and team leader of the EU-funded project “Follow-up to the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020,” reminded participants of the 25th anniversary of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), saying that despite successes to date, the “tragic” loss of biodiversity has continued, consequentially endangering human populations. He drew attention to taking stock of lessons learned from the successes and shortfalls of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 in the post-2020 biodiversity agenda, through 25 countries representing different ecological and socio-economic conditions. He stressed that the post-2020 biodiversity targets should not duplicate ongoing efforts, but facilitate the emergence of ideas that are “outside the box” and complementary to existing efforts. He noted five specific objectives that should be considered in a post-2020 biodiversity agenda, including: broadening and strengthening negotiators’ mandates to address strategic issues, such as sustainable consumption and production; identifying tensions between the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the CBD objectives; clarifying the role of measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) systems; enhancing the mobilization of civil society actors; and integrating a post-2020 biodiversity agenda as a basis for the post-SDG era and “the road to 2050.” Cristiana Paşca Palmer, CBD Executive Secretary, stressed the need for a post-2020 biodiversity agenda that is more innovative, transformative, and ambitious than the one that has existed over the last 25 years. She stated that while progress has been made, it is not enough to deviate from business as usual, noting the need for “transformative change,” which will be defined in terms of the knowledge and capacities to engage in protecting biodiversity. She said the mainstreaming of biodiversity must extend to sectors that have not yet been considered, including mining, industry, and health. She emphasized the importance of taking a “systems approach” for transformative change in unlocking the “path dependency” of business as usual. This, she noted, would require a broad range of actors to engage in a bottom-up dialogue that brings natural capital and biodiversity to the core of decision making. She stressed that such an approach requires enhanced accountability, an inclusive process for defining voluntary contributions, and engagement with social scientists to contribute innovative techniques and alternative approaches to systems thinking that can lead to transformative change. She concluded stressing that the next two years should be viewed “as a period to incubate some disruption of the path dependencies of the system.” Anne Theo Seinen, European Commission, emphasized that strengthening voluntary commitments of stakeholders, particularly through National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NPSAPs) should remain the “cornerstone of implementation” of the Convention’s commitments. In particular, he noted that voluntary commitments are important for accelerating implementation, holding parties accountable, and facilitating assessment of the achievement of global targets. Moustafa Fouda, CBD National Focal Point, Egypt, questioned whether the CBD has “done its job properly,” noting that since business as usual is no longer tenable, innovative thinking is going to be mandatory to push the biodiversity agenda forward. He underscored the need to identify “champions of biodiversity” and creative ways of engaging with youth to build on existing efforts and to offer new opportunities. Gu Li, Director, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, China, stressed that a theme of transformative change must transpire at CBD COP 15 in Beijing in 2020. She likened the post-2020 biodiversity agenda to the confluence of “small streams into a larger river.” This, she said, refers to the convergence of ongoing initiatives towards enhanced consensus on action for transformative change. In the ensuing discussion between the Expertise France team and participants, several opportunities were suggested for advancing a post-2020 biodiversity agenda. Participants identified, inter alia: the need for technical assistance to mainstream biodiversity within financial procedures and products; ensuring that benefits-sharing goes beyond monetary outcomes to get more indigenous young women involved in science; assuring that a greater voice is provided to citizens, and not just to business and science, to uncover what “relations of value for nature” mean for people around the world; creating an enabling environment for citizen science, particularly within national educational sectors; rethinking the language of communication on biodiversity; and the importance of reforming the environmental sector to effectively mainstream biodiversity. Participants also noted the importance of mainstreaming biodiversity, and of clearly defining indicators to track progress for evaluating how mainstreaming can lead to transformative change. Panel speakers during the session Didier Babin, Expertise France Anne Theo Seinen, European Commission Moustafa Fouda, CBD National Focal Point, Egypt Gu Li, Director, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, China Cristiana Paşca Palmer, CBD Executive Secretary Participants ask questions during the session Organizers for the event CONTACT Charlotte Ndakorerwa | charlotte.ndakorerwa@un.org MORE INFORMATION https://www.unenvironment.org/ http://web.unep.org/environmentassembly/ https://www.unenvironment.org/resources/report/mainstreaming-biodiversity-well-being Mainstreaming Biodiversity in the Oil and Gas Sector: Good Practices for Biodiversity Management Presented by IPIECA, in collaboration with the UN Environment Programme-World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Delegates during the event This side event provided an understanding of the realities and frontiers of best practices in managing biodiversity in the oil and gas sectors, with company representatives and civil society partners sharing their own examples, case studies, and experiences. Gertjan Roseboom, Chair, IPIECA-International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (IOGP) Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Working Group, presented on the mainstreaming of biodiversity in the oil and gas sector. He stated that IPIECA’s member companies represent over 50% of global oil and gas production. He explained that companies manage biodiversity by making it a part of their standard operations and explained that the mitigation hierarchy, which ensures that negative impacts on biodiversity are minimized, is key to this industry. He said this tool is used by the oil and gas industry and national governments to develop a framework for best management practices. Roseboom noted that negative effects on landscapes can be avoided at the beginning of projects and presented six interrelated Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (BES) practices that are mainstreamed in the oil and gas industry through risk-based approaches, a mitigation hierarchy, and partnerships. Matt Jones, UNEP-WCMC, introduced “Proteus,” a voluntary collaboration between UNEP and businesses that supports the provision of biodiversity information. He noted that UNEP’s collaboration with extractive companies aims to support “Proteus” companies in adopting effective biodiversity impact mitigation compatible with an ecosystems approach. He pointed to a 165% increase in data entries over the past 15 years and stressed the need for good quality data, adding that data given to companies should be used effectively. He said that partnerships like “Proteus” provide a mechanism for companies to contribute to the global biodiversity agenda. Steve Edwards, IUCN, highlighted how the oil and gas industry is mainstreaming biodiversity through the use of the mitigation hierarchy and showcased IUCN's work with industry through independent scientific and technical advisory panels (ISTAPs). He explained the nature of ISTAPs and IUCN’s role, including through a new report on the IUCN Niger Delta Panel, stating that the Panel consists of people from various backgrounds. He noted several recommendations, including on how to manage biodiversity in the region. In addition, he underscored that Shell’s policy and practice in Nigeria has changed due to the Niger Delta Panel’s contributions, which also inspired changes at the IUCN resulting in the identification of more viable approaches to biodiversity conservation in oil-impacted areas that are being applied and tested. Paola Pedroni, IOGP Environment Committee Co-Chair and Eni representative, spoke about Eni’s engagement with BES, noting that their global BES model has evolved and that it enables a systematic integration into their global assets. She showcased the core principles of Eni’s BES Policy, including: the recognition of BES relevance to Eni and society; the adoption of a risk-based approach to BES management and of the mitigation hierarchy; and stakeholder engagement and partnerships. She also highlighted some practical examples where subsidiaries in Egypt manage offshore facilities in the Nile Delta, such as the Zohr and Nidoco Projects and the Abu Madi Gas Processing Plant. David Palandro, ExxonMobil and Vice-Chair, IPIECA-IOGP Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Working Group, stated that safeguarding the ability of the environment to support biodiversity and provide ecosystem services is a priority for Exxon Mobil. He noted that Exxon Mobil implements scientifically-sound, practical and sustainable solutions rooted in environmental assessment and risk management. He highlighted the Exxon Mobil Papua New Guinea Biodiversity Strategy and expressed a commitment to achieve no net loss for biodiversity in the upstream area of the project site. He highighted the use of a mitigation hierarchy in the area and engagement with stakeholders to understand key priorities, noting that local communities must be partners in the process. Mark Johnston, British Petroleum (BP), presented on the Tangguh expansion project in the West Papua Province of Indonesia where the gas pipeline is undergoing expansion. He noted a commitment to achieve no net loss in the operations and highlighted mitigation measures, including minimizing the operation’s footprint, rehabilitation, and offsetting. In the ensuing discussions, panelists answered questions on: the status of gender-based NGOs and the special role of women in local communities; how widespread these practices are in the industry; and the timeframe regarding cleaning up the Niger Delta oil spill. Panel speakers during the event Paola Pedroni, Co-Chair of the IOGP Environment Committee and Eni representative Gertjan Roseboom, Chair of the IPIECA-IOGP Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Working Group David Palandro, ExxonMobil and Vice-Chair of the IPIECA-IOGP Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Working Group Moderator Anna Gray, IPIECA Mark Johnston, Group Ecology Expert, BP CONTACT Anna Gray | anna.gray@ipieca.org MORE INFORMATION https://www.ipieca.org/ Guidance for Development of Gene Drive Application Presented by the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Delegates during the event This side event considered key recommendations of a scientific working group on the lifecycle of a project seeking to develop and deploy gene drive mosquitoes, including stakeholder engagement practices. Discussions focused on the need to develop new tools for malaria control, considering that, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2016, there were 216 million cases of, 445 000 deaths from, and 3.2 billion people at risk of malaria. It was also noted that 91 countries had ongoing malaria transmission malaria cases worldwide. Ann Kingiri, African Centre for Technology Studies, Kenya, opened the event, noting the importance of focusing on key scientific recommendations to ensure a constructive and time-effective debate. She thanked the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, which is supporting gene drive research in Africa with special attention to malaria. Mamadou Coulibaly, University of Bamako, Mali, highlighted that, despite progress in controlling malaria, the disease still remains a major public health issue causing over 400,000 deaths a year. He explained that existing tools and strategies have contributed to saving millions of lives but could be improved. He said complete elimination of malaria remains a challenging goal due to factors, such as low funding, insecticide resistance and drug resistance. He then stressed that existing tools are insufficient in Africa, where outdoor transmission of malaria is frequent, making millions of people vulnerable and suggested that modification through gene drive systems could theoretically provide extra protection. He stated that this technology should not be perceived as a “silver bullet,” but as an additional tool. Charles Mbogo, Kenya Medical Research Institute, discussed stakeholder engagement in the development and testing of gene drive mosquitoes. He discussed the efforts of the scientific working group, which worked for two years on malaria in Africa, and described different strategies for developing modified mosquitoes, highlighting the WHO’s “Guidance Framework for testing genetically modified mosquitoes.” When dealing with gene drive systems, he called for building on relevant regulatory precedents and conducting tests based on the best available science. He underlined the publication “Pathway to Deployment of Gene Drive Mosquitoes as a Potential Biocontrol Tool for Elimination of Malaria in Sub-Saharan Africa: Recommendations of a Scientific Working Group.” This publication, he said, provides an analysis of gene drive technology as a promise for a high-impact, cost-effective, and durable method to control malaria transmission that would also make a significant contribution to elimination. Based on this study, he noted that this technology has raised concerns that necessitate careful consideration for the product development pathway. In conclusion, Mbogo reported that the group’s recommendations on a decision to enter field testing should rely on safety evaluation at the end of physically confined laboratory testing. Jerome Singh, Ethical, Legal, Social Issues Advisory Services on Global Health Research and Development, South Africa, emphasized stakeholder engagement and public participation in gene drive mosquito experiments. He explained differences in terminology related to “community,” “stakeholders,” and “public” to explain the need to recognize that their interactions are dynamic and constantly changing. Noting challenges on getting community authorization to develop gene drive approaches, he suggested that different sides may have different needs and that community engagement is not a standard process, but is context-specific. He urged the engagement of social scientists in this process and emphasized that community engagement should not be confused with public relations, communications, or advocacy. He further defended that gene drive approaches should evolve in accordance with ethical obligations and concluded with stating that communities require trust as a quintessential element. Willy Tonui, Environmental Health Services Ltd., Kenya, shared the experiences of regulators with a focus on a case study from Kenya. He spoke on requirements of international conventions, including those being made at CBD COP 14, which are relevant for many developing countries. On recommendations for biosafety, he noted the need for all-hazards risk assessment before mosquitoes are released and at each stage of trial expansion and that address a wide array of hazards, such as human and animal health, biodiversity and socio-economics. He stressed that monitoring and evaluation are key and that they should be carried out based on stakeholder engagement practices. He then highlighted the publication “Gene Drives for Malaria Control and Elimination in Africa,” which describes a process on this technology. During the discussion, panelists shared their takeaway messages, including: that gene drive approaches are an ongoing research process; guidelines must be followed and developed based on science; COP/MOP 14 are working on important topics and essential regulations for this technology; and that science must take risks while being responsible. Ann Kingiri, African Centre for Technology Studies, Kenya Mamadou Coulibaly, University of Bamako, Mali Delegates during the session Jerome Singh, Ethical, Legal, Social Issues Advisory Services on Global Health Research and Development, South Africa Charles Mbogo, Kenya Medical Research Institute A participant asks a question Willy Tonui, Environmental Health Services Ltd., Kenya CONTACT Hector Quemada | hquemada@danforthcenter.org MORE INFORMATION https://www.danforthcenter.org Around the Venue Delegates between sessions A delegate from Cameroon walks through the plenary The Majilis Community Lounge: a space set up to showcase local initiatives of people involved in biodiversity and community development, and supported the Small Grants Programme with the Egyptian Government Traditional artefacts on display A locally made felt-book with images that educate children on how to live sustainably Local spices on display