At COP16, Denmark’s Minister for the Environment, Magnus Heunicke, announced Denmark’s commitment to add approximately 13.4 million EUR (100 million DKK) to the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund. This contribution, financed through Denmark’s development aid and coordinated with Denmark’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reflects Denmark’s active commitment to promoting global biodiversity initiatives.

The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, established as part of the 2022 Kunming-Montreal Agreement, supports projects to meet biodiversity targets. Under this agreement, UN member states adopted ambitious goals, including the protection of 30% of the world’s natural areas and the restoration of another 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030.

“Our shared responsibility is to protect the world’s nature and biodiversity, and urgent joint action is needed to conserve and restore remaining species and habitats. This contribution reinforces Denmark’s dedication to enhancing global biodiversity,” Magnus Heunicke, Denmark’s Minister for the Environment.

Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen emphasised the social and economic benefits of protecting biodiversity, especially for communities in developing nations:

“The world faces a biodiversity crisis with species disappearing at unprecedented rates. With our contribution, we are supporting poorer communities in managing their natural resources sustainably, ensuring access to clean water, fertile soil, and economic opportunities without compromising their local ecosystems.” Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Denmark’s biodiversity initiatives will particularly focus on partnerships with the least developed countries and small island states, which are disproportionately affected by biodiversity loss and climate change. The fund will also provide project grants to indigenous and local communities, empowering them to manage their natural resources in sustainable ways.