The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) has launched guidelines that aim to assist governments in integrating wildlife conservation into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to combat climate change. Released during the UN Convention on Biological Diversity COP16, these guidelines provide ten actionable steps for countries to enhance their climate strategies while recognizing the ecological and economic benefits of wildlife conservation, especially vital in biodiversity-rich regions. Simon Addison of IFAW emphasizes the timely need for these guidelines as nations update their NDCs for 2025, providing a roadmap for integrating wildlife into climate action.
On October 21, 2024, in Cali, Colombia, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) launched a significant set of guidelines aimed at aiding governments and policymakers in the integration of wildlife conservation into their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This initiative took place at the commencement of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity’s 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16), emphasizing the importance of wildlife conservation in combating climate change. The timing is particularly crucial, as nations are currently in the process of updating their NDCs for 2025, as stipulated in the Paris Agreement. The guidelines offer pragmatic recommendations for governments, underscoring the need to acknowledge and enhance the role of wildlife in both carbon sequestration and climate resilience. Simon Addison, IFAW’s Climate Advisor, articulated the immediate significance of these guidelines, stating that they provide a “clear, practical roadmap to harness the power of wildlife conservation for mitigating climate change and strengthening climate resilience and adaptation.” He noted the guidelines entail ten actionable steps for nations to effectively integrate wildlife into their NDCs, thereby strengthening both climate action and biodiversity conservation. The guidelines also point out that current climate strategies often neglect to consider wildlife conservation. A substantial number of countries, particularly those in biodiversity-rich but climate-vulnerable regions, have not included wildlife in their greenhouse gas inventories or climate strategies. This oversight presents a significant opportunity lost for enhancing climate resilience while protecting biodiversity. Additionally, Mr. Addison emphasized the tools available for nations, allowing them to treat wildlife conservation as a vital aspect of climate action. Key highlights of the guidelines underscore the role of wildlife in carbon sequestration, particularly focusing on keystone species—such as elephants, whales, and large predators—which are essential for maintaining ecosystems that store carbon. Protecting and managing these species is pivotal for increasing carbon capture and promoting overall ecosystem health. The guidelines articulate a ten-step framework that aids countries in integrating wildlife into national greenhouse gas inventories and aligning wildlife conservation with existing policy frameworks. Furthermore, incorporating wildlife conservation and restoration efforts is presented not only as an environmental necessity but also as a potential driver of economic benefits, especially in biodiversity-rich least developed countries. It is also noted that these initiatives can foster sustainable livelihoods and unlock new avenues for carbon finance. The full guidelines are accessible for download via the IFAW website.
The integration of wildlife conservation into national climate plans is a pressing necessity as nations seek to enhance their responses to climate change. The launch of IFAW’s guidelines during a pivotal international conference highlights the intersection of biodiversity and climate action. The guidelines recognize the critical role wildlife plays in maintaining ecosystems that are fundamental for carbon capture, thereby advancing climate objectives. Moreover, the current trend of excluding wildlife considerations from climate strategies risks undermining efforts to achieve comprehensive climate resilience and protection of biodiversity. As nations prepare to update their NDCs, there is an urgent call for actionable steps that recognize wildlife’s contributions to climate goals.
In conclusion, the launch of IFAW’s guidelines represents a crucial step toward integrating wildlife conservation into national climate action plans. With ten actionable steps outlined for effective integration, these guidelines emphasize the importance of acknowledging wildlife’s role in carbon sequestration and climate resilience. By embracing these guidelines, nations can enhance their climate strategies while concurrently safeguarding biodiversity, ultimately driving sustainable development and creating additional economic opportunities within vulnerable communities.
Original Source: www.ifaw.org
