Convention on Biological Diversity and WWF
The CBD is relevant to WWF's mission
WWF along with IUCN was instrumental in the creation of the CBD and has played an active role in guiding the processes that address specific environmental questions.
© WWF
The objectives of the CBD are therefore relevant to WWF's mission, which outlines three main approaches to achieving its goals:
- preservation of genetic species and ecosystem diversity;
- ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources, and
- reducing pollution and the consumption of natural resources.
Issues such as conservation, sustainable use and the equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of genetic resources are at the core of the CBD and many of the provisions set out in its 42 Articles are broad and cross-cutting.
How WWF works with the CBD
The effectiveness of the Convention depends to a large extent on the way in which it is implemented at the national level. Thus, there are many opportunities for WWF to influence the Convention by sharing its experience and facilitating dialogue and action on specific issues.
Conservation isn’t just about biology anymore. It is about the people, the economic and social policies, the funding. Those are the things that will determine if you’re going to save an elephant.
Also, WWF can influence CBD processes by participating in regional fora both during and between different Conferences of the Parties (COPs).
At a COP, WWF participates in advising government delegates, offering technical information to all participants on relevant issues, and presenting educational events which demonstrate concrete actions governments may take to address specific issues.
National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plans
In addition to helping develop CBD policy, WWF has been actively involved in preparing the National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plans in several developing countries. These action plans reflect both WWF priorities and provide the basis for improved conservation and sustainable use activities at the national and local levels.
Awareness raising, capacity building...
WWF has also worked on awareness raising, capacity building, and relevant policy recommendations based on case studies and information management. Likewise, WWF staff use lessons from field experiences for formulating CBD policy recommendations.
Support at both the international and national levels
The CBD programme has also been successful in strengthening the capacities of governments and NGOs to implement national conservation and sustainable use measures and approaches. Initial evaluations have shown that government agencies and staff appreciate WWF support at both the international and national levels.
Some specific examples include the efforts in Cameroon , South Pacific, Colombia and Russia where the Biodiversity Policy Officers have participated in government commissions, committees and expert panels, among other fora.
Finally, WWF contributes to the development of CBD work programmes, decisions and technical guidance.
Long-term solutions adapted to country specific realities
The outreach and implementation of the CBD can help with WWF's efforts around the globe. This process of NGOs working with governments helps achieve conservation goals and creates policy frameworks that ensure long-term solutions adapted to country specific realities.
