Manuel Pulgar-Vidal, WWF’s Global Lead for Climate & Energy, emphasises the deep interconnection between climate change and biodiversity loss, highlighting the vital role of non-state actors. As a former Peruvian Minister of the Environment, Pulgar-Vidal draws on his extensive experience in environmental policy to advocate for unified action on climate and nature. He argues that addressing these dual crises requires simultaneous efforts, where businesses, mayors, Indigenous communities, and civil society help bridge the gap between policy and grassroots action, fostering global collaboration.
A Critical Five-Year Window to Achieve 2030 Goals
The 2022 establishment of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) set a clear direction for action over the next five years to reach the global biodiversity targets for 2030. Pulgar-Vidal stresses that while the framework provides essential conservation targets, it cannot operate in isolation; only with urgent, collective action will progress be achievable, especially given the escalating climate crisis. He points out that linking the GBF’s objectives with economic development is crucial, requiring nations and stakeholders to integrate biodiversity protection across economic strategies in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and public health to foster sustainable growth.
Core Goals for Implementation
Pulgar-Vidal envisions five “concentric circles” of action, each representing a level of focus. The innermost circle centres on implementing the GBF, integrating biodiversity targets across key economic sectors such as food, energy, and finance. He highlights the necessity of securing funding, particularly the target of raising $20 billion annually in public financing by 2025, which would help embed conservation into a broader agenda. Pulgar-Vidal hopes to promote a global consensus around a “nature-positive” vision—one that halts and reverses biodiversity loss by 2030, delivers a third of the climate mitigation required, and promotes the full restoration of nature.
Mobilising Non-State Actors for Impact
Pulgar-Vidal underscores the pivotal role of non-state actors in advancing biodiversity and climate action beyond government policies. He notes that over 450 non-state actors worldwide are already driving nature-based solutions and encourages amplifying this momentum. He also advocates for innovative public budgeting approaches, directing resources effectively towards biodiversity goals across various sectors. This cross-sector collaboration not only strengthens biodiversity protection but also engages private sector and civil society in ongoing sustainability efforts, resulting in broader climate, economic, and social benefits.
From Collaboration to Potential Unification
Regarding the potential future integration of climate and biodiversity under a single global framework, Pulgar-Vidal suggests that while this vision may be on the horizon, it will require time. Initially, the conventions developed independently to address each issue with dedicated focus; however, as global challenges become increasingly interconnected, enhanced synergy between these frameworks is essential. He foresees that, over time, more closely aligned climate and biodiversity objectives may accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
Pulgar-Vidal’s vision is one of unity and resilience, urging all parties to work together for a sustainable and robust planet. Through collaboration and innovative approaches, he calls for decisive action to meet the intertwined challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.
Recommend for you:
COP29 Leaders｜Eamon Ryan to Use COP29 Climate Talks to Challenge Israel Over Gaza Conflict
