ICLEI Cities Biodiversity Centre (CBC), will host and lead a series of five webinars, with the support from partners: United Nations Environment Programme, Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, International Union for Conservation of Nature, Regions4 and the European Committee of the Regions, to explore the key role of subnational and local governments in the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Considering the role of subnational and local governments was a “game changer” at COP15 in December 2022, it is important to keep momentum while focusing on strategies for the implementation of the GBF as we start preparing for the COP16 taking place in 2024.

Investments in nature-based solutions (NBS), ecosystem restoration and ecosystem-based adaptation needs to triple by 2030 and increase four-fold by 2050 if we are to adequately address current societal challenges and biodiversity loss. Currently, 85% of all financing for nature comes from governments, while private capital accounts for 14%. Private & development finance will be key to plug this gap.

This panel discussion, involving high level speakers from the finance, business and public sectors, focuses on showcasing opportunities and initiatives for increasing investment in, and funding for, biodiversity action at local and subnational level, including instruments and mechanisms such as grants, bonds, and blended finance mechanisms.