International Collaboration Seeks Ecological Networking at United Nations Assembly
Global Partnership on Ecological Connectivity Launched to Protect Migratory Species
An ambitious new initiative, the Global Partnership on Ecological Connectivity (GPEC), was unveiled at the United Nations wildlife meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The launch of GPEC marks a hopeful step forward in the collective effort to protect the planet's natural heritage and ensure a sustainable future for migratory species and ecosystems worldwide.
GPEC aligns with global conservation priorities, including those outlined in the UN General Assembly Resolution "Nature Knows no Borders," adopted in 2021. The partnership seeks to mobilize necessary funding to implement critical actions aimed at maintaining and enhancing ecological connectivity, a factor that plays a significant role in broader biodiversity conservation, land restoration, and climate change mitigation efforts across various ecosystems.
The inception of GPEC was motivated by the findings and recommendations of the CMS report, "State of the World's Migratory Species." This report continues to be relevant, as it highlights the urgent need for actions to identify, protect, connect, and manage key sites for migratory species effectively.
GPEC aims to identify, protect, and link critical areas essential for the survival and migration of wildlife. Its work will focus on four main areas: Data Research and Monitoring, Policy and Legislation, Uptake and Implementation, and Awareness Raising and Outreach.
The partnership includes a network of over 100 development organizations such as Bündnis Eine Welt Schleswig-Holstein (BEI), cooperating institutions like the Church Development Service of the North Church (KED), and the Working Group of One World State Networks in Germany (agl). These institutions work together on global justice, sustainable development, and the protection and improvement of ecological connectivity, especially for migratory species.
The efforts aim to integrate and analyze scientific data, support evidence-based decision-making, encourage the application of connectivity conservation strategies, and increase public support for ecological connectivity. GPEC's actions contribute directly to the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
The launch of GPEC at the UN wildlife meeting coincided with the 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP14) to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). GPEC emphasizes the importance of international and transboundary cooperation to maintain and enhance ecological connectivity, a key aspect for the survival and health of migratory species across the globe.
In conclusion, the Global Partnership on Ecological Connectivity represents a significant stride in global conservation efforts. By focusing on ecological connectivity, GPEC aims to support the survival and health of migratory species, contribute to biodiversity conservation, land restoration, and climate change mitigation, and ultimately, ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
