At the G20 Environmental and Climate Sustainability Ministers Meeting in Chennai, India, South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Ms. Barbara Creecy, highlighted the importance of global cooperation in protecting biological diversity.
South Africa’s Mega-Biodiversity
South Africa is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, which contributes to the country’s cultural and national identity. The country’s rich biodiversity also drives socio-economic development by promoting sustainable use of various plants, marine creatures, and wildlife.
The Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
In December, the international community adopted the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), which includes the ambitious 30 by 30 goal to preserve biodiversity, ecosystems, and ultimately human life. As 17 of the major biodiverse countries are developing nations, achieving these targets will require significant support from developed countries in terms of funding and resources.
South Africa’s White Paper on the Sustainable Use of Biological Diversity
To support the KMGBF and address environmental challenges, the South African government recently adopted the White Paper on the Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biological Diversity. This strategic document outlines four key goals: conservation, sustainable use, equitable sharing of benefits, and transformation.
Land Degradation Neutrality and Collaboration
Land degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change are interconnected global environmental challenges. The year 2030 marks a significant milestone for achieving Land Degradation Neutrality, one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. South Africa welcomes ongoing discussions under the Indian Presidency and past presidencies, and looks forward to collaboration through initiatives such as the G20 Global Initiative on Reducing Land Degradation and Enhancing Conservation of Terrestrial Habitats.
Minister Creecy’s Participation at the G20 Meeting
Minister Creecy’s participation in the G20 meeting demonstrates South Africa’s commitment to addressing pressing environmental issues and highlights the importance of international collaboration in tackling global challenges. As the world moves towards the critical 2030 deadline, it is essential that countries work together to protect and preserve the planet’s precious biodiversity for future generations.
The G20 Environmental and Climate Sustainability Ministers Meeting provided a platform for leaders like Minister Barbara Creecy to discuss significant environmental challenges facing the world today. With the adoption of the White Paper on the Sustainable Use of South Africa’s Biological Diversity and participation in global initiatives, South Africa is taking significant steps to protect its rich biodiversity and contribute to the global effort to preserve our planet’s ecosystems.
