2024-11-02 16:36:00
Greenpeace sees the lack of a decision on funding at COP16 as a bitter blow to international species protection. While some progress was made in marine conservation and an indigenous rights panel was established, the central issue of funding remained unresolved. “The negotiators are probably not aware of the seriousness of the situation. Without sufficient financial resources, nature conservation is toothless,” says Ursula Bittner, species protection expert at Greenpeace. “The funding gap must be closed urgently.”
Greenpeace welcomes the recognition of African American communities under the Convention and the newly established Panel on Indigenous Rights. The question of the use of digital sequence information (DSI) was resolved despite unprecedented lobbying attempts by the pharmaceutical and agricultural lobbies. This is how the so-called Cali Fund was founded, into which companies that want to use DSI have to pay.
“However, this progress is unfortunately overshadowed by inadequate funding. It is unacceptable for rich countries to break their $20 billion pledge. It must be clear to the international community: without intact ecosystems there is no life on this planet,” says Bittner.
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**Interview with Ursula Bittner, Species Protection Expert at Greenpeace**
**Interviewer:** Ursula, thank you for joining us today. COP16 has concluded, and it seems many are disappointed with the lack of progress on funding for species protection. Can you explain why you believe this funding gap is so critical?
**Ursula Bittner:** Thank you for having me. The absence of a decision on funding at COP16 is indeed a bitter blow. Without adequate financial resources, nature conservation efforts become ineffective. It’s essential we realize that effective conservation requires investment; otherwise, we are compromising the health of our ecosystems, which ultimately supports all life on Earth.
**Interviewer:** Despite the funding issues, some advancements were made, like the establishment of the Panel on Indigenous Rights and the Cali Fund concerning digital sequence information. How do you view these developments?
**Ursula Bittner:** These developments are indeed positive steps, especially recognizing the rights of marginalized communities and addressing the challenges around digital sequence information. However, they cannot overshadow the urgent need for funding. It’s frustrating that rich countries are failing to meet their $20 billion pledge. Without fulfilling these financial commitments, even innovative initiatives risk failing.
**Interviewer:** That raises an important point about the responsibilities of wealthier nations. How do you think they can be held accountable for these pledges?
**Ursula Bittner:** Accountability is critical. The international community must apply pressure through diplomatic channels and public demands to ensure rich countries honor their commitments. This should include transparent reporting on how funds are being allocated and spent. It’s unacceptable for wealthier nations to sidestep their responsibilities while biodiversity continues to face unprecedented threats.
**Interviewer:** With COP16 behind us, what can individuals do to support your mission in ensuring funding and protection for our ecosystems?
**Ursula Bittner:** Individuals can advocate for stronger policies around biodiversity conservation, support organizations working on these issues, and demand accountability from their governments. Public pressure can drive change, and education is key. The more people understand the importance of healthy ecosystems, the more they will push for adequate funding and policy improvements.
**Interviewer:** with the challenges you’ve mentioned, do you think there’s hope for better outcomes in future conferences?
**Ursula Bittner:** I remain cautiously optimistic. The awareness is growing, and there is a palpable urgency around these issues. However, it will require sustained advocacy, collaboration, and commitment from all levels of society—governments, organizations, and individuals—to make a real difference. The path forward will be challenging, but it is vital to keep pushing for what’s right.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Ursula, for your insights. It’s clear that the conversation about funding and species protection must continue, and we look forward to seeing how these issues evolve in the future.
**Debate Question for Readers:** Considering the critical role of funding in successful conservation efforts, how do you think we can best hold wealthier nations accountable for their environmental commitments?
