Progress on the ambition and clarity of genetic conservation in the post-2020 GBF
Our perspective article is written for a policy maker audience and describes the evolution of the GBF wording around genetic diversity over the past two years. We identify some remaining areas of improvement needed so that genetic diversity can be conserved post 2020.
Genetic diversity Goals and Targets have improved, but remain insufficient
Human activities are leading to widespread and catastrophic declines in genetic diversity, which can ultimately contribute to species’ extinctions. Conservation of genetic diversity is crucial because it can increase species’ and ecosystem resilience to threats like climate change and novel pests and diseases.
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is a global and legally binding treaty among nearly all countries to conserve, sustainably use, and share benefits of biodiversity. The Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework is currently being prepared and is expected to have three to five high-level goals around conservation, sustainable use, and shared benefits, and 22 action targets on the changes in human society and activities needed to achieve the goals.
In our paper, recently published in conservation genetics, we reflect on the process of setting the GBF, with respect to genetic diversity, over the past three years. Specifically, we:
Describe the evolution of wording around genetic diversity in the Goals and Targets
Highlight issues that should be resolved in the final GBF draft and provide suggestions for resolving them
Share lessons learned from participating in this process
Reiterate connections between GBF wording and indicators to measure progress
“The improvements in the post-2020 GBF draft reflect an increasing understanding among CBD policymakers regarding genetic diversity and its importance.
Further refinement of the text is critically needed to retain key principles and ensure robust monitoring and reporting, while avoiding perverse incentives and potential loopholes.”