CBD COP16 Conference in Cali, Colombia

Biodiversity encompasses much more than the Earth's vast array of plants, animals, and microorganisms. It includes diversity at every level—genes, species, ecosystems, and landscapes. Scientists estimate that there are approximately 8.7 million species worldwide, with around 2.2 million species found in marine environments. Despite centuries of research and the identification of over 1.2 million species, it is estimated that 86% of land species and 91% of ocean species remain undiscovered and undescribed.

Recognising the critical need for global biodiversity conservation, the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF) Korea actively participated in the #CBDCOP16 in collaboration with partners like Eco Korea. HSF Korea contributed information and experience aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to halt biodiversity loss and ensure ecosystem resilience.

At the conference, Dr. Hyun-Ah Choi, Senior Researcher at HSF Korea, will share expertise on conserving the Central Asian Flyway, a critical migratory route for numerous bird species under the GMACC project. This effort underlines the importance of cross-border cooperation to safeguard biodiversity, reflecting the broader goals of the COP 16 agenda to protect biodiversity at all levels and across all regions.