The UN has a new leader in the fight to save Earth's ecosystems! Astrid Schomaker of Germany was appointed Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) this week, tasked with turning ambitious global biodiversity goals into real-world action.
What’s the Plan? 📋
Schomaker will spearhead the UN’s Biodiversity Plan—adopted in 2022—which aims to protect natural habitats, ensure fair benefits from nature's resources, and boost global funding. The plan’s four pillars: Protect 🌳, Prosper 💼, Share 🤝, and Invest 💰.
COP16 Countdown ⏳
All eyes are on Cali, Colombia, where world leaders will gather in October 2024 for the COP16 summit. Countries are expected to submit revamped national strategies aligned with the Biodiversity Plan. Key goal: Close the funding gap by securing $20B/year from developed nations by 2025.
Why It Matters 🔥
With less than six years left to hit 2030 targets, the pressure is on. Schomaker will need to mobilize resources beyond existing funds like the Global Environment Facility—especially the new Global Biodiversity Framework Fund. Current acting chief David Cooper will hold the fort until she steps in.
The CBD, signed by 196 countries since 1993, remains a cornerstone of global environmental cooperation. Let’s see if Schomaker can turn eco-pledges into planet-saving progress! 🌏✨
