The global decline in biodiversity is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Species extinction, habitat destruction, and ecosystem degradation are accelerating, threatening the stability of ecosystems that support life on Earth. To combat this alarming trend, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework was adopted in 2022, setting ambitious global goals to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.

To support this agenda, State of Green is mobilising several initiatives and activities in the following weeks leading up to the UN Biodiversity Conference COP16 in Cali in October.

World Biodiversity Summit in New York

At the World Biodiversity Summit 2024, held during New York Climate Week, State of Green, in partnership with the World Climate Foundation, will lead discussions on biodiversity’s role in tackling climate challenges. Now in its fourth year, the summit focuses on fostering public-private partnerships to promote biodiversity restoration through nature-positive decision-making. With nature-based solutions and sustainable investments at the forefront, Danish and international actors will advance the dialogue on 26 September.

State of Green will host a roundtable discussion on the business case for biodiversity, with an emphasis on the need for robust biodiversity financing and the development of standardised measurement tools. This event, seen as a precursor to COP16, will bring together high-level stakeholders from across the globe, underscoring Denmark’s proactive role in shaping global biodiversity strategies. The participants will explore the potential of the bioeconomy and innovations in sustainable supply chains, discussing how to create markets that incentivise nature-positive outcomes. The roundtable will also provide an essential platform to showcase Denmark’s tradition of strong public-private collaboration, which is crucial for driving scalable and impactful biodiversity solutions.

COP16: Public-private action to halt the loss of biodiversity

Following the World Biodiversity Summit, the course is set south when global leaders gather to discus biodiversity at COP16, which will take place in Cali, Colombia, from 21 October to 1 November 2024. As biodiversity takes centre stage, Denmark is sending it’s first official business delegation to support coordinated efforts between public organisations and private solution providers. This joint delegation, led by the Danish Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, Danish Industry, and State of Green, reflects the commitment to promoting biodiversity through collaborative initiatives.

From 26-30 October, the Danish delegation will actively engage in business forums, side events, and a high-level segment at COP16, where the goal is to strengthen Danish messages and showcase innovative approaches to biodiversity management.

Driving biodiversity solutions through collaboration and innovation

Biodiversity is increasingly becoming a strategic focus for leading Danish businesses and financial organisations, with many recognising the importance of integrating biodiversity considerations into their operations. Although Denmark faces significant challenges in halting biodiversity loss, the country is addressing these obstacles through strong public-private partnerships. The Danish Biodiversity Partnership is a key example, where corporations collaborate with the government to shape legislative frameworks and identify barriers to progress.

Also read: New recommendations prompts businesses to act on biodiversity

State of Green highlights innovative solutions that can help businesses reduce biodiversity impacts, securing market access and mitigating risks. Leveraging new technologies, including AI, Danish companies are developing tools to better understand ecosystems, streamline reporting, and promote nature-positive outcomes. Lowering biodiversity impacts not only safeguards natural resources but also opens new financial opportunities for businesses across sectors.