Convention on Biological Diversity

Definition

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is an international treaty aimed at conserving biological diversity, promoting sustainable use of its components, and ensuring fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. This treaty serves as a critical framework for global cooperation in environmental policy, recognizing the intrinsic value of biodiversity and the importance of maintaining ecosystems for future generations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Convention on Biological Diversity was adopted in 1992 at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
2. It has three main objectives: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources.
3. The CBD has been ratified by over 190 countries, making it one of the most widely accepted international agreements focused on biodiversity.
4. Regular meetings known as Conferences of the Parties (COP) are held to assess progress and establish new goals for biodiversity conservation among member countries.
5. The Nagoya Protocol, adopted in 2010, is a supplementary agreement to the CBD that focuses on access to genetic resources and the fair sharing of benefits derived from their use.

Review Questions

• How does the Convention on Biological Diversity aim to address environmental issues related to biodiversity loss?
  • The Convention on Biological Diversity addresses biodiversity loss by establishing a framework for international cooperation that focuses on conservation strategies and sustainable resource management. It encourages countries to develop national biodiversity strategies and action plans tailored to their unique ecosystems. By promoting awareness and collaboration among nations, the CBD aims to mitigate threats to biodiversity and foster long-term environmental sustainability.
• What role do the Conferences of the Parties (COP) play in the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity?
  • Conferences of the Parties (COP) serve as key forums for member countries to evaluate progress towards achieving the objectives set by the Convention on Biological Diversity. During these meetings, countries discuss challenges they face in biodiversity conservation, share successful practices, and set new targets for protection efforts. The COP allows for collective decision-making that shapes policies and strategies essential for global biodiversity management.
• Evaluate how the Nagoya Protocol enhances the objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity regarding genetic resources.
  • The Nagoya Protocol enhances the objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity by establishing a legal framework for access to genetic resources and ensuring that benefits derived from their use are shared fairly among stakeholders. This protocol addresses issues of biopiracy and promotes ethical research practices by requiring prior informed consent from resource providers. By aligning benefit-sharing with conservation efforts, the Nagoya Protocol strengthens global commitments to sustainable development while respecting indigenous rights and knowledge.

Related terms

Biodiversity: The variety of life on Earth, encompassing the diversity of species, ecosystems, and genetic variation within species.

Sustainable Development:

Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often involving environmental, social, and economic considerations.

Ecosystem Services:

The benefits provided by ecosystems to humans, including clean air and water, pollination of crops, climate regulation, and recreational opportunities.