CGIAR at CBD COP 16: Advancing science, partnerships, and global solutions for environmental health and biodiversity

I am honoured to represent the CGIAR Impact Platform on Environmental Health and Biodiversity here in beautiful Cali. We’ve spent nearly two weeks at the Conference of Parties for the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Our presence as CGIAR centers focused on three goals: following negotiations and engaging with parties, showcasing our impactful science to inform discussions, and building strategic partnerships to advance CGIAR’s next portfolio and influence the 3 Rio Conventions. I am proud to say we achieved all three.

With over 150 CGIAR scientists present and more than 300 additional experts supporting remotely, we showcased science that can substantively inform global decisions. We hosted over 36 events at the CGIAR Food and Agriculture Pavilion and contributed to more than 200 other events, which strengthened our visibility and impact. CGIAR’s work was widely recognized, with negotiators consulting our scientists to apply our research findings.

As we wrap up, we look forward to an active year in 2024, engaging at key conventions. In the coming weeks, we’ll head to Baku for the UNFCCC conference, and then to Riyadh for the Convention on Combating Desertification. Our engagement extends beyond these events; it’s an ongoing effort to update parties with relevant scientific insights.

This is also a valuable moment to actively listen to the needs and knowledge gaps expressed by the parties. This ongoing dialogue helps us tailor our research to support the development of effective global recommendations grounded in high-quality science.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to CGIAR staff, partners, and allies for their invaluable support and collaboration. To our colleagues here in Cali and around the world, thank you for showcasing CGIAR’s work and helping make this COP a success. Seeing our scientific evidence in action brings us great pride and reminds us of the impact we’re achieving together.

Cargele Masso, Director, CGIAR’s Environmental Health and Biodiversity Platform