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The Science Panel for the Amazon at COP16: Key Highlights

By Science Panel for the Amazon

From October 21 to November 1, 2024, the Sixteenth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP16) took place in Cali, Colombia, bringing together global leaders, scientists, policymakers, and advocates to address the urgent challenges facing biodiversity. The COP16 included the Eleventh Meeting of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety and the Fifth Meeting of the Nagoya Protocol on Genetic Resources. This conference was the first biodiversity-focused COP since the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) in 2022, with member states expected to demonstrate how their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) align with this framework. The gathering also advanced crucial measures on benefit-sharing from digital sequence information and strengthened the role of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in biodiversity conservation.

The Science Panel for the Amazon (SPA) played an active role in this historic event, hosting four key sessions, releasing critical publications, and contributing to numerous dialogues on Amazon conservation and sustainable development. With a mission to bridge science, policy, and local knowledge, the SPA amplified the Amazon's voice and underscored the importance of innovative, science-based approaches for its protection. Here’s a closer look at SPA’s involvement.

The SPA’s Events at the COP16

I. Science, Technology, and Innovation for New Regenerative Socio-Bioeconomies in the Amazon

October 21, 2024 | Amazonia Forever Pavilion, Blue Zone

This session marked the launch of SPA’s Policy Brief titled "A Network of Science, Technology, and Innovation Hubs to Catalyze Socio-Bioeconomies for the Amazon Region" and an official SPA Statement on Amazonian Biodiversity. SPA Co-Chair Carlos Nobre emphasized the urgent need to transition to regenerative socio-bioeconomies in the Amazon. Marion Adeney, Co-Lead Author of the Science, Technology, and Innovation (ST&I) Policy Brief, highlighted the importance of innovation hubs in leveraging the region’s biological and cultural diversity to protect biodiversity, advance climate goals, and provide equitable benefits to Amazonian communities.

James Albert, Co-Lead Author of the Biodiversity Statement, stressed the need for collaborative policies to safeguard the Amazon’s rich ecosystems, which harbor over 10% of all named species globally and play a crucial role in carbon and water regulation worldwide. He argued that realizing the Amazon’s potential requires integrating Indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) with cutting-edge science and technology, supported by a robust framework for intercultural equity and benefit-sharing.

Moderated by Marielos Peña-Claros, the panel included experts such as Lauro Barata (Co-Lead Author of the Policy Brief), Juan Guayasamin (Co-Lead Author of the Biodiversity Statement), Kevin McCall (Senior Environmental Specialist at The World Bank), and Nicolás Castaño (Researcher at Instituto SINCHI). They discussed how socio-bioeconomic frameworks based on standing forests and flowing rivers can drive sustainable growth and resilience to climate change. Panelists recommended policies to deter illegal deforestation while incentivizing sustainable practices.

The panelists advocated for a collaborative, transboundary network of innovation hubs to mobilize resources, foster knowledge exchange, and strengthen capacities. This network is essential for achieving breakthroughs in sustainable solutions and developing nature-inspired innovations. By recognizing the Amazon’s biodiversity potential and fostering collaboration, we can promote sustainable development that conserves nature and supports the livelihoods of Indigenous peoples and local communities.

II. Universities and Amazon Protection: Science, Knowledge, and Cooperation for a Sustainable Future

October 25, 2024 | La Casa Humboldt, Green Zone

This session, co-hosted by Instituto CAPAZ and the International Office of Sustainability, addressed the transformative role of universities in conserving the Amazon amidst harmful extractivist policies. Gisele Didier, Director of Knowledge at the Alexander von Humboldt Institute, opened with remarks that set the stage for a panel moderated by María Llinás Soto, Coordinator of the International Office of Sustainability.

Panelists included:

  • Marielos Peña-Claros, SPA Co-Chair
  • Gregorio Díaz Mirabal, COICA’s Coordinator of Climate Change and Biodiversity and SPA Strategic Committee member
  • Carlos Larrea, Professor and Researcher at Universidad Andina Simón Bolívar and SPA Lead Author
  • Stefan Peters, Director of Instituto CAPAZ and SPA Author
  • Tatiana Roa Avendaño, Deputy Minister of Environmental Land Planning, Colombia’s Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development

The discussion emphasized that universities should champion development models rooted in sustainability and local knowledge, advocating for scientific approaches that respect ancestral knowledge systems. With a focus on education and scientific diplomacy, the event underscored international cooperation as an essential mechanism for influencing policy and fostering sustainable models to protect the Amazon.

III. Bridging Worlds: Promoting Knowledge Dialogues for Amazon Conservation and Sustainable Development

October 26, 2024 | Amazonia Forever Pavilion, Blue Zone

This event marked the launch of two key publications: the SPA Policy Brief "Protected Areas and Indigenous Territories: Pillars for Achieving Conservation Goals in the Amazon" and the SDSN White Paper "Promoting Knowledge Dialogues in Amazonia: Learning from Best Practices and Experiences." SPA Co-Chair Marielos Peña-Claros opened the session, followed by presentations from Carmen Josse, Lead Author of the Policy Brief, and André Junqueira, Lead Author of the SDSN White Paper. Their presentations highlighted the critical role of Protected Areas (PAs) and Indigenous Territories (ITs) in achieving conservation goals and building resilience through Indigenous and Local Knowledge (ILK).Moderated by Emma Torres, SPA Strategic Coordinator, the session featured contributions from the Lead Authors, along with insights from Gregorio Díaz Mirabal (COICA and SPA Strategic Committee) and Ana María Gonzalez Velosa, Coordinator of the Amazon Sustainable Landscapes Program at The World Bank. SPA Co-Chair Carlos Nobre concluded with reflections on integrating ILK into conservation frameworks.

Discussions underscored that PAs and ITs together cover about 50% of the Amazon and play a vital role in biodiversity conservation and climate mitigation, holding 58% of the region's aboveground carbon stock. Indigenous stewardship was highlighted as crucial for maintaining ecological and cultural connectivity. Panelists stressed the importance of integrating Indigenous and local knowledge in conservation and adaptation efforts, recommending policies to protect Indigenous rights, promote biocultural conservation, and ensure diverse representation in decision-making. The event concluded with a call for collaborative governance models prioritizing Indigenous rights and participation for sustainable biodiversity outcomes.

IV. Scientific Cooperation for Tropical Forest Conservation and Sustainable Development: Amazon, Congo, and Borneo Science Panels

October 28, 2024 | GEF Partnership Pavilion, Blue Zone

This event, co-organized by the SPA, the UN SDSN, and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), highlighted the importance of South-South scientific collaboration. Dr. Cristian Samper, Managing Director at the Bezos Earth Fund, moderated the session, which included insights from:

  • Ms. Emma Torres, SDSN Vice President for the Americas and Head of the NY Office
  • Dr. Claude Gascon, GEF Director of Strategy and Operations
  • Dr. Garo J. Batmanian, Director General of the Brazil Forest Service

The Co-Chairs of the Science Panels for the Amazon (SPA), Congo Basin (SPCB), and Borneo (SPB) shared their progress, achievements, and next steps, leading into a dialogue on cross-forest scientific collaboration to influence global conservation efforts and increase investment in scientific institutions for conservation and sustainable development. Key discussion points included the impacts of climate and land use changes, nature-based solutions, and the integration of Indigenous and Local Knowledge into scientific research.

Panelists included:

  • Dr. Carlos Nobre, SPA Co-Chair
  • Dr. Marielos Peña-Claros, SPA Co-Chair
  • Dr. Raphaël M. Tshimanga, SPCB Co-Chair
  • Dr. Lydie-Stella Koutika, SPCB Co-Chair
  • Dr. Bonaventure Sonké, SPCB Co-Chair
  • Dr. Mazlin Bin Mokhtar, SPB Co-Chair

Closing reflections from Dr. Erwin De Nys (World Bank), Aileen Lee (Moore Foundation), and Adriana Moreira (GEF) emphasized the significance of cross-regional cooperation in achieving meaningful, long-term outcomes for tropical forest conservation.

The SPA’s Broader Engagement and High-Level Participation

The SPA actively contributed to the COP16, participating in key dialogues and advocating for science-based solutions to Amazon conservation challenges. SPA Co-Chairs Dr. Marielos Peña-Claros and Dr. Carlos Nobre took part in several significant events, including: "Regional Cooperation to Avoid the Amazon Tipping Point" organized by WWF and OTCA; “Meta-Amazon Knowledge Repository: Connecting Knowledges for a Sustainable Future of the Amazon” organized by Wyss Academy and WCS; "Challenges in Addressing Environmental Crimes and Protecting Biodiversity" organized by the UK Government's TEFOS program; and "Amazonia Under Pressure: Upholding Indigenous Rights to Prevent a Point of No Return" organized by STAND.earth.

Additionally, SPA members contributed to other key spaces within the COP16, such as the presentation of the BioAmazonia Network and events by the Alianza NorAmazónica, as well as the event "Promoting Solutions Combining Science and Policy for Socio-Biodiversity," organized by Brazil's Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, with Minister Marina Silva in attendance.

At the High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on Synergies Between Biodiversity and Climate Change, Dr. Carlos Nobre highlighted the Amazon's proximity to an ecological tipping point, warning that the rainforest has become a net carbon source due to ongoing deforestation and human-induced fires. He stressed the need for immediate, large-scale forest restoration and advocated for a socio-bioeconomy in the Amazon that prioritizes standing forests and flowing rivers over extractive industries. Dr. Nobre also underscored the essential role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. During the session, Colombia’s Minister of Environment and the COP16 President, Susana Muhamad, referenced the SPA as a guiding resource for science-based conservation strategies in the Amazon.

The conference also marked the launch of the Pan-Amazon Network for Bioeconomy, initiated by the World Resources Institute (WRI) and Conservation International (CI). This coalition of over 20 organizations, including the SPA, aims to foster a sustainable and inclusive bioeconomy across the Amazon, supporting initiatives that protect biodiversity, combat deforestation, and create equitable economic opportunities for local communities.

SPA Internal and Bilaterals

Throughout the COP16, the SPA team held several internal meetings to advance work on the upcoming Amazon Assessment Report 2025, which is scheduled for release at the COP30 in Belém. These discussions were critical in aligning strategies to ensure the report reflects the latest scientific insights and recommendations for Amazon conservation.

The SPA also met with the Co-Chairs of the Science Panels for the Congo Basin and Borneo, strengthening collaboration and knowledge sharing across the panels to tackle shared environmental challenges. Bilateral meetings were held with various allies and potential partners, including the Inter-American Network of Academies of Sciences (IANAS) and financial stakeholders such as the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF), the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Aliados de Impacto, Bancolombia, and the Institute of Finance and Sustainability (IFS). These discussions focused on reinforcing partnerships and exploring collaborative opportunities to promote sustainable development and conservation in the Amazon.

Recognitions and New Appointments for SPA Members

Martin von Hildebrand, SPA member and renowned conservationist, was appointed Secretary General of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (OTCA). With over 50 years dedicated to Indigenous rights and environmental protection in Colombia, Martin’s work has safeguarded more than 200,000 square kilometers of Amazon rainforest while promoting policies that support sustainable livelihoods for Indigenous and local communities. His appointment was widely celebrated at the COP16 as a pivotal step toward strengthening cooperation among Amazonian nations. His leadership is expected to bring about greater alignment between OTCA and SPA, furthering their shared mission for a sustainable and biodiverse Amazon.

Belén Páez, President of Fundación Pachamama and SPA member, was awarded the Thomas E. Lovejoy Prize. This prestigious award, named after the pioneering conservation biologist and SPA Strategic Committee member Dr. Thomas Lovejoy, honors Belén’s decades of work advocating for Amazon conservation and Indigenous rights. Her efforts have been instrumental in protecting Indigenous communities’ rights, promoting sustainable economic alternatives, and leading conservation initiatives that emphasize ecological and cultural resilience. This recognition is a testament to her steadfast commitment to the Amazon and her dedication to continuing Dr. Lovejoy's legacy of safeguarding the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems.

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Through its impactful events, strategic collaborations, and recognition of its leaders, the Science Panel for the Amazon reaffirmed its commitment to Amazon conservation and global biodiversity at the COP16. The conference underscored the urgency of protecting the Amazon and emphasized its critical role in advancing sustainable solutions that integrate conservation with the socioeconomic needs of local communities. As SPA continues to cultivate innovative partnerships and advocate for science-based strategies, it stands poised to make significant contributions to combating biodiversity loss and fostering a resilient, sustainable future for the Amazon and its inhabitants.