The 78th United Nations General Assembly has planned a Science Summit for September 12 to 29, 2023. A central theme of the summit will be the role that science plays in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Biodiversity specialists from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission (SSC) will attend.
The summit’s worldwide experts will discuss scientific approaches, innovations, and collaborations to tackle worldwide environmental challenges and promote sustainable development. Furthermore, they will share knowledge and experiences to promote international cooperation and inspire countries to actively incorporate scientific advancements into their environmental policies and practices.
IUCN Commissions and their Impact on Biodiversity Conservation
IUCN commissions are critical for driving action to prevent biodiversity loss and directly supporting the SDGs. By uniting experts from various disciplines, these commissions facilitate and promote conservation projects, sustainable development policies, and environmental advocacy.
In order to create tangible, positive impacts in preserving our planet’s ecosystems, the commissions collaborate with governments, non-governmental organizations, and local communities to ensure effective strategy implementation.
Summit Sessions on Cooperative Conservation Initiatives
Numerous summit sessions will cover topics such as cooperative conservation initiatives in South America, activating national networks for the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) objectives, and supporting the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) execution.
The sessions aim to encourage collaborative efforts and facilitate dialogue between various stakeholders, such as governmental representatives, environmental organizations, and indigenous communities. By addressing challenges and sharing successful strategies in biodiversity conservation, the summit aspires to produce a comprehensive and effective approach to achieving the goals outlined in the CBD and GBF.
IUCN SSC Centers for Species Survival Session
On September 26, 2023, a session will focus on the efforts of IUCN SSC Centers for Species Survival (CSS) in Argentina and Brazil. The discussion will analyze how their work supports biodiversity conservation (SDG 15) by accelerating joint efforts in collaboration with key sectors (SDG 17).
Panelists will showcase successful case studies from Argentina and Brazil and emphasize the critical role played by CSS centers in bridging research and on-ground implementation. Attendees can learn about effective strategies and best practices for understanding interconnected sustainable development goals and the importance of cross-sector collaboration for the future of our planet’s wildlife.
SSC National Species Specialists Group Model Session
An additional session on September 27, 2023, will explore the SSC National Species Specialists Group model as a method for developing and leveraging national capacity. The aim is to counteract negative trends in biodiversity loss through well-defined targets, ambitious capacity development, and heightened cooperative action.
Analyzing the success and challenges faced by the SSC National Species Specialists Group model will allow participants to identify key strategies for national and global adoption. Through collaboration, it is expected that innovative solutions will be developed to foster a sustainable balance with nature and reverse crucial species population declines.
IUCN Commissions and the Global Biodiversity Framework
On September 28, 2023, a panel will discuss the role, strategies, and actions of IUCN Commissions in assisting the GBF implementation and their perspectives on global biodiversity preservation.
Experts from various IUCN Commissions will share insights on how collaborative efforts can contribute significantly to the GBF’s objectives. They will discuss current and future challenges in preserving biodiversity, emphasizing cross-sector cooperation and coordinated policies to mitigate species and ecosystem loss.
Importance of Collaboration with IUCN SSC Experts
The 2023 Science Summit underscores the increasing importance of biodiversity conservation in achieving global sustainability objectives. By sharing knowledge and partnering with other stakeholders, the IUCN aims to foster positive changes to safeguard our planet’s invaluable biodiversity.
Continual collaboration and idea exchange, facilitated at events such as the 2023 Science Summit, enable the development of innovative conservation strategies. These strategies ensure the protection of critical habitats and species. By integrating the expertise of IUCN SSC scientists with that of other professionals, this collaborative approach seeks to create long-lasting, sustainable solutions that benefit both nature and society in combatting biodiversity loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central theme of the 78th United Nations General Assembly Science Summit?
The central theme of the summit is the role that science plays in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on biodiversity conservation.
When and where will the Science Summit take place?
The summit is scheduled for September 12 to 29, 2023. The location has not been mentioned in the provided information.
What is the role of IUCN commissions in biodiversity conservation?
IUCN commissions play a critical role in driving action to prevent biodiversity loss and support the SDGs. They unite experts from various disciplines to facilitate and promote conservation projects, sustainable development policies, and environmental advocacy.
What topics will be discussed during the summit sessions on cooperative conservation initiatives?
Summit sessions will cover topics such as cooperative conservation initiatives in South America, activating national networks for the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) objectives, and supporting the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) execution.
What is the focus of the IUCN SSC Centers for Species Survival Session?
The session will focus on the efforts of IUCN SSC Centers for Species Survival (CSS) in Argentina and Brazil, showcasing successful case studies and emphasizing the role played by CSS centers in bridging research and on-ground implementation for biodiversity conservation.
What is the objective of the SSC National Species Specialists Group Model Session?
The objective is to explore the SSC National Species Specialists Group model as a method for developing and leveraging national capacity to counteract negative trends in biodiversity loss through well-defined targets, capacity development, and cooperative action.
What will be discussed during the IUCN Commissions and the Global Biodiversity Framework panel?
The panel will discuss the role, strategies, and actions of IUCN Commissions in assisting the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) implementation, as well as their perspectives on global biodiversity preservation.
Why is collaboration with IUCN SSC experts important for biodiversity conservation?
Collaboration with IUCN SSC experts is essential in achieving global sustainability objectives, as it fosters positive changes to safeguard our planet’s biodiversity through knowledge sharing, idea exchange, and innovative conservation strategies.
First Reported on: iucn.org
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Markus Winkler; Pexels; Thank you!