Columbia launches COP16 logo
In an exciting and symbolic moment, Colombia, the host country of the Convention on Biological Diversity COP 16, unveiled the official COP 16 logo on the 28th of February, 2024. The grand reveal took place amidst the prestigious setting of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, during the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6).
The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and enthusiasm as delegates and attendees from around the world gathered to witness this historic event. Against the backdrop of the global environmental agenda, the launch of the COP 16 logo marked a significant step forward in the collective effort to address biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Colombia, with its remarkable biodiversity and dedication to environmental stewardship, was the perfect host for COP16 in October. The unveiling of the logo underscored the country's role as a leader in biodiversity conservation and its commitment to driving positive change on the global stage.
The logo itself, inspired by the Inírida flower, a species endemic to Colombia, carefully crafted to embody the spirit of COP 16 and Colombia's rich biodiversity, captivated onlookers with its vibrant colors and intricate design. It served not only as a visual representation of the conference but also as a powerful symbol of hope and commitment to protecting our planet's precious ecosystems. Central to the logo's design are the 23 petals. Each of these represents one of the 23 targets outlined in the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), adopted at COP 15 in Montreal. These targets serve as guiding principles for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, outlining specific actions and objectives to be achieved within set timelines.
The image, brings representation of the 13 ecoregions in Colombia prioritized in the National Development Plan. Making 'Peace with Nature' is the message of COP16 in Colombia. A call for
reflection to improve the relationship we have with the environment, to rethink an economic model that does not prioritize the extraction, overexploitation and pollution of nature.
As the world eagerly anticipates COP 16, scheduled to be held from October 21 to November 1, 2024, the launch of the logo serves as a reminder of the urgency and importance of the discussions and decisions that lie ahead. With the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework at COP 15 in Montreal, Canada, just over a year prior, COP 16 holds the promise of building upon this momentum and charting a global action for nature towards 2030 following the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This plan includes concrete actions to halt and reverse the loss of nature, including protecting 30% of the planet and restoring 30% of degraded ecosystems
Dr. David Cooper as Acting Executive Secretary of the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) spoke on the three areas where the Parties to the Convention will be expected to accelerate the momentum of action: Translate the GBF into resolute national action,mobilize and bolster the means of implementation and accelerate progress on access and benefit-sharing
