Berlin Urban Nature Pact annual meeting begins in Izmir

The annual meeting of the Berlin Urban Nature Pact has commenced in Izmir, Turkey, hosted by the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality. Held from October 19 to 21 at the Historical Gasworks Factory, the gathering brings together local government representatives, international organizations, and experts to discuss strategies for halting biodiversity loss and restoring nature by 2030.

During the opening session, Professor Dr. Pinar Okyay, Deputy Secretary General of the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, emphasized the inseparable link between climate change and biodiversity. She noted that protecting nature is essential to combating climate change and vice versa, stating that biodiversity serves as the foundation for healthy ecosystems, food security, clean water, and human health.

The meeting also highlighted the role of cities in managing land use, housing, and infrastructure to prevent biodiversity loss. Discussions touched upon the ‘One Health’ approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health, citing the importance of local ecological sites like the Gediz Delta.