Representatives from nearly 150 governments, alongside leading scientific experts, have convened in Namibia for the 11th session of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES-11). This marks the first-ever IPBES Plenary held on African soil, a milestone welcomed by Dr. David Obura, the first IPBES Chair from Africa.
IPBES, an independent intergovernmental body established in 2012, provides policymakers with objective, science-based assessments on biodiversity, ecosystems, and their contributions to human well-being. The platform also offers tools and strategies to protect and sustainably manage these vital resources.
In his opening remarks, Dr. David Obura, the first IPBES Chair from Africa commended H.E. President Nangolo Mbumba and all the people of Namibia for their remarkable hospitality and generosity in hosting the IPBES Plenary. “As the first Chair of IPBES from Africa, it is wonderful to also have the opportunity to conduct the first-ever session of the IPBES Plenary on African soil,” said Dr. Obura of Kenya.
Further revealing that IPBES-11 is tremendously important to inform and help shape policy and actions that support biodiversity and just, sustainable futures for people and nature across the world.
IPBES-11 has provided a platform for policymakers and social scientists to engage directly with the interests of local communities most affected in mind. This interaction aims to bridge the gap between complex scientific knowledge and practical policy-making that can be seamlessly implemented as solutions for challenges faced.
Notable is that while discussions on the two assessments were productive, they revealed the main challenge of translating scientific findings into actionable policies that address biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Namibia is renowned for taking frontline stances in issues around conservation with actions aligned to safeguarding nature and people. The Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, emphasized the critical role of IPBES-11 in fostering global cooperation.
“Let IPBES-11 be a turning point where science, policy, and global collaboration come together to secure a future where biodiversity thrives, and humanity flourishes alongside each other,” he said. He called for stronger international cooperation, increased financial and technical support for biodiversity-rich nations, and the inclusion of local communities in conservation strategies.
IPBES-11 Has Major Assessment Reports Under Review
One of the key highlights of the IPBES-11 agenda is the review and discussion of two landmark assessment reports: the Nexus Assessment and the Transformative Change Assessment. The two reports aim to provide actionable insights to support policymakers in tackling interconnected global challenges.
- The Nexus Assessment This report explores the interlinkages between biodiversity, water, food, health, and climate change. It offers a holistic approach to addressing these issues simultaneously, moving beyond isolated, single-issue responses. Discussions on the Nexus Assessment revealed the complexity of its themes, with member States emphasizing the need for clarity and a comprehensive approach to address freshwater biodiversity and the links between biodiversity loss and food production. Some sessions were postponed to ensure more thorough deliberation on these crucial topics.
- The Transformative Change Assessment This assessment focuses on the systemic changes required to halt biodiversity loss and create a sustainable future. Delegates examined the drivers of biodiversity loss and discussed financial and economic instruments, such as payments for ecosystem services, to promote change. The report also underscores the importance of global sustainability strategies and the role of transformative change in achieving biodiversity goals.
As the week-long meeting approaches its conclusion, IPBES is expected to make significant strides in shaping biodiversity policy. Especially for the continent, IPBES-11 represents a historic moment for Africa’s role in shaping global biodiversity policy.
The insights from the Nexus and Transformative Change Assessments are expected to influence future policy frameworks aimed at protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainability. As the world grapples with interconnected environmental crises, the outcomes of this meeting could serve as a blueprint for transformative global action.
