How China Promotes Global Biodiversity Conservation
As the global rate of species extinction accelerates due to factors such as climate change, pollution, habitat loss, and invasive species, China is taking significant steps to promote biodiversity conservation both domestically and internationally. Recognized as one of the world's most biodiverse countries, China is striving to balance economic development with environmental protection, actively supporting global efforts to conserve biodiversity.
A pivotal moment in global biodiversity conservation was the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) during the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the Convention on Biological Diversity, which was chaired by China and hosted by Canada. This historic framework aims to address the urgent need for biodiversity protection and sets ambitious targets for conservation efforts worldwide.
As COP16 commenced in Cali, Colombia, discussions focused on the implementation of the KMGBF and the mobilization of financial resources to support these initiatives.
China's Initiatives in Biodiversity Conservation
In October 2021, China announced the establishment of the Kunming Biodiversity Fund, committing to invest 1.5 billion yuan (over $210 million) to support biodiversity protection in developing countries. Launched in May 2024, the fund aims to provide financial, technical, and capacity-building assistance to help these countries implement the KMGBF, emphasizing multilateralism and international cooperation.
Domestically, China has undertaken a series of innovative actions to enhance biodiversity conservation:
Ecological Protection Red-Line System: This system designates specific areas that are off-limits to industrial and urban development, ensuring the preservation of critical ecosystems. China aims to maintain the national ecological protection red-line area at over 3.15 million square kilometers.
Natural Protected Areas: The country has established more than 11,000 natural protected areas, which cover 18% of its total land area. These areas receive dedicated funding and management to conserve biodiversity effectively.
National Park System: China is working towards creating the world's largest national park system by 2035. The first batch of national parks includes the Sanjiangyuan National Park, Giant Panda National Park, Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park, Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, and Wuyishan National Park. Together, these parks protect approximately 230,000 square kilometers of land and are home to nearly 30% of the country’s key terrestrial wildlife species.
National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan: As the chair of COP15, China submitted an updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan in January ahead of COP16. This plan outlines policies for biodiversity protection, restoration, pollution management, and combating illegal wildlife trade.
China's commitment to biodiversity conservation is evident through its proactive initiatives and leadership in global frameworks like the KMGBF. By investing in biodiversity protection, establishing protected areas, and promoting international cooperation, China is playing a crucial role in addressing the global biodiversity crisis. As discussions continue at COP16, the world will be watching to see how these efforts evolve and contribute to the preservation of our planet's rich biodiversity.
