Glossary of Key Terms
Biodiversity: The variety of life in all its forms and interactions, including genetic diversity within species, species diversity within ecosystems, and ecosystem diversity across landscapes.
CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity): The main international legal framework for biodiversity conservation, establishing principles for conservation, sustainable use, and equitable benefit-sharing.
COPs (Conferences of the Parties): Decision-making forums under the CBD where countries negotiate biodiversity targets, financing mechanisms, and implementation strategies.
GBF (Global Biodiversity Framework): The current global strategy adopted at COP15 setting targets to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and restore ecosystems by 2050.
IPBES: The international body that assesses the state of biodiversity and ecosystem services to inform policy decisions—think of it as the "IPCC for biodiversity."
Nature-Based Solutions: Approaches that use natural processes and ecosystem functions to address societal challenges while providing biodiversity benefits.
PES (Payments for Ecosystem Services): Economic instruments that compensate landowners for managing their land in ways that provide ecosystem benefits.
Polluter-Pays Principle: An environmental policy principle requiring those who cause environmental damage to bear the costs of their impacts, creating financial disincentives for harmful practices.
Target 3 ("30x30"): A Global Biodiversity Framework target aiming to protect 30% of land and ocean areas globally by 2030.
Essential Resources
Policy Documents: