NatureXpairs at COP16: Strengthening Global Biodiversity Efforts and Partnerships

HAC N&P Matchmaking Sessions: Aligning Needs and Expertise

Kicked off with a dedicated side-event to showcase the French expertise posted on the HAC N&P Technical assistance platform, 63 to this date, NatureXpairs also co-organised five matchmaking sessions focused on empowering countries to achieve their conservation goals by providing them with tailored expertise and resources. This initiative that included present members of the HAC N&P French Working Group, brought together a diverse group of international stakeholders to address region-specific challenges in biodiversity conservation. With representatives from Liberia, Costa Rica, Colombia, Nepal, Papouasia New Guinea and Somalia, ensuing bilateral emphasized a cooperative approach, connecting countries with French and international expertise. Emerging from these meetings are actionable collaborations that promise to advance nature preservation efforts, notably through planned support for conservation projects in regions with critical biodiversity needs. In a concluding side-event, high-level representatives from five HAC N&P members countries discussed their experiences and the lessons learned in forming partnerships to support the 30×30 implementation, and Global experts and funders examined key steps for moving from initial matches to effective action, setting the stage for practical, scalable solutions to biodiversity challenges.

Marine Protected Areas in the Caribbean: A Key Side Event

The side event dedicated to Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Caribbean showcased NatureXpairs’ commitment to marine conservation and climate resilience. Co-hosted with CAR-SPAW and featuring prominent voices such as Agnès Pannier-Runacher, French Minister of Ecology, Ms. Adianez Taboada Zamora, Vice-minister of Citma, Cuba and Sakhile Silitshema from the CBD Secretariat, this session highlighted the importance of MPAs and inclusive governance in the Caribbean. With regional stakeholders and practitioners, we underscored the importance of of uniting MPA practitioners, local communities, and cross-sector partners to tackle environmental challenges and sustain long-term conservation efforts. We also unveiled the support programme for protected area managers we are co-building with the SPAW-RAC and that we hope to set on track for 2026.

Advocating for Rangers: The Call to Cali

Recognizing the essential role of rangers in conservation, a dedicated event co-hosted by the IRF, GNF, NatureXpairs and the Post2020 Biodiversity Framework – EU support promoted the “Ranger Call to Cali”. This initiative brings much-needed attention to the challenges rangers face and advocates for increased political support and resources. The following press conference underscored the importance of their work on the frontlines of biodiversity protection. NatureXpairs remains dedicated to strengthening this movement, recognizing that supporting rangers is critical for achieving global conservation objectives.

Achieving the 30×30 Target Together

Throughout COP16, NatureXpairs’ efforts have contributed significantly to the global discourse on biodiversity and conservation. Our events, which brought together diverse voices and expertise, underscored the urgent need for continued cooperation, knowledge sharing, and targeted support. Moving forward, NatureXpairs remains committed to empowering our partners with training, resources, and operational frameworks to meet the 30×30 target and beyond.

• You can watch the event on how to support the implementation of 30×30 on the GEF Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_n9KqdsZd4&list=PL3rC5AoFPemUhZ-Q1848-s_8XxOWCB1QR&index=10

• To learn more about France first successful match with Liberia : https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7256774669280624640

• To explore the side-event on the MPA network in the Caribbean region : https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7257456663471738881