The 16th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP16) is a critical opportunity for world leaders to confront the threats posed by oil and gas to ecosystems and biodiversity. Hosting the conference, Colombia champions the Fossil Fuels Non-Proliferation Treaty and emphasizes the necessity of integrating fossil fuel phaseout into global biodiversity discussions. The offshore oil and gas sector significantly harms marine habitats and rights of Indigenous Peoples, making it essential that governments at COP16 commit to actionable strategies that prioritize biodiversity alongside climate goals to ensure a sustainable future.
As global leaders convene for the 16th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP16) from October 21 to November 1, 2024, in Cali, Colombia, there lies a pivotal opportunity to address the adverse effects of fossil fuels—particularly oil and gas—on ecosystems, communities, and the climate. The imminent threat to biodiversity from climate change, pollution, and habitat degradation underlines the conference’s urgent theme, “Make Peace with Nature.” However, establishing this peace will be unattainable without addressing the pressing issue of fossil fuels, a primary contributor to the intertwined crises of climate change, biodiversity degradation, and toxic pollution. Colombia, as the host and a proponent of the Fossil Fuels Non-Proliferation Treaty (FFNPT), is in a unique position to lead discussions among nations regarding the necessity of mitigating the impacts of oil and gas in these negotiations. Over 30 percent of oil and gas operations occur offshore, with forecasts of increased activity related to liquefied natural gas (LNG) production extending into deeper maritime territories. The offshore oil and gas sector significantly exacerbates global warming, damages marine biodiversity, and introduces hazardous pollutants into ocean environments, thereby endangering the rights and livelihoods of coastal communities and Indigenous Peoples. The critical role of marine biodiversity in sustaining a healthy planet—including its contributions to fisheries, climate regulation, cultural preservation, and water quality—is gravely threatened by offshore oil and gas operations at every phase, from exploration to decommissioning. Specific detrimental activities, such as seismic surveys, lead to the mortality of marine mammals and adversely affect essential microorganisms, while oil spills during drilling are frequent, presenting serious risks, especially in deeper waters. A concerning aspect is the surge in vessel traffic necessitated by increased oil and gas transportation, particularly the development of LNG terminals in ecologically sensitive areas. Furthermore, companies frequently abandon their infrastructure after exploitation, which not only leads to further oil spills but also fosters the proliferation of invasive species. Despite its considerable impact on biodiversity, offshore oil and gas activities are mostly omitted from international discussions focused on biodiversity conservation. As the CBD serves as the cornerstone for global biodiversity protection efforts, it is imperative that fossil fuel phaseout—especially offshore operations—be prioritized to meet conservation objectives. At COP16, member states will assess strategies and actions being undertaken to meet biodiversity targets. However, without addressing fossil fuels, their commitments may prove ineffectual. The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) embodies ambitious targets aimed at halting biodiversity loss, necessitating that offshore activities be considered in discussions surrounding climate change mitigations. Targets, such as habitat conservation and sustainable usage, risk faltering if the issue of offshore oil and gas is not addressed. Colombia’s leading role at COP16 offers a significant opportunity to shift this narrative; having already endorsed the FFNPT, it is positioned to foster high-level conversations and advocate for integrating offshore oil and gas considerations into CBD negotiations, encouraging adherence to biodiversity and climate alignment across member states. The conference presents an essential juncture for mainstreaming biodiversity within diverse sectors, demanding that all decisions regarding oil and gas licensing and exploration include thorough biodiversity impact assessments. This is particularly crucial in the Caribbean region where actions may influence sensitive ecological zones. COP16 should catalyze the transformation of proposed marine protected areas into effective sanctuaries free from oil and gas exploitation. Moreover, the active involvement of Indigenous Peoples and frontline communities in decision-making processes surrounding oil and gas is vital. COP16 ought to champion their needs and perspectives in all pertinent discussions. Finally, as governments pursue compatibility between biodiversity and climate action (Agenda item 25), addressing the fossil fuel conundrum will be indispensable. Without decisive measures to phase out oil and gas, COP16 may falter in achieving its objectives. The swift abandonment of fossil fuels stands to strengthen biodiversity conservation efforts and align with the Paris Agreement’s goal of capping global warming at 1.5°C. In conclusion, the success of COP16 is contingent upon the resolute approach taken by governments to confront the ramifications of the fossil fuel sector. Should meaningful progress not materialize in terms of fossil fuel phaseout, the aspiration of resonating with the motto “make peace with nature” will likely remain an inadequately realized promise. COP16 symbolizes a critical moment for harmonizing biodiversity preservation with action on climate change. Confronting the oil and gas threat, particularly concerning maritime ecosystems, is an essential step toward fulfilling global environmental and biodiversity objectives. Colombia’s endorsement of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty accentuates the urgency of this message; a just and sustainable future cannot coexist with ongoing fossil fuel investments. The onus lies on attending nations to transcend mere rhetoric and assertively engage in systematic actions that exclude oil and gas from protected marine areas, integrate biodiversity into climate initiatives, and revise their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) to ensure fossil fuel phaseout. The health of our ecosystems, oceans, and communities is inherently tied to the outcomes of COP16, making immediate action vital for establishing a sustainable and biodiversity-rich future.
The article elaborates on the significance of the CBD COP16 meeting taking place in Cali, Colombia, highlighting the pivotal moments during this conference where world leaders can address the dire consequences of fossil fuel extraction, particularly offshore oil and gas, on global biodiversity and ecosystems. As evidenced in numerous studies, the contributions of the oil and gas industry to climate change and biodiversity loss are profound, necessitating immediate action against these practices to avert further ecological degradation. The overall narrative frames the interconnectedness of biodiversity and climate goals, emphasizing Colombia’s potential leadership role in promoting policies that prioritize ecological integrity alongside energy demands.
In summation, COP16 presents a crucial moment for nations to align their environmental policies with the urgent need to phase out fossil fuels, particularly in offshore operations that threaten biodiversity. Led by Colombia, there is a unique opportunity for governments to radically shift discussions towards effective actions that integrate biodiversity considerations into energy policies. The pledges made at this conference will significantly influence global efforts to safeguard our oceans, ecosystems, and communities from the ravages of fossil fuel exploitation. The imperative for immediate, decisive action cannot be overstated; the well-being of our natural world hinges on the commitments made at COP16.
Original Source: www.ciel.org
