Global environmental groups address land degradation and biodiversity targets

Global environmental organizations are addressing critical challenges regarding land degradation and biodiversity conservation. CGIAR has announced its participation in the 17th Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (COP17), scheduled for August 2026 in Ulaanbaatar. The organization aims to bridge gaps between land, water, food, and biodiversity management by translating scientific evidence into policy and investment.

Separately, non-governmental organizations have raised concerns regarding the proposed Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) target to protect 30% of the planet by 2030. Critics argue that the target lacks sufficient safeguards for Indigenous Peoples and local communities. They suggest that previous conservation efforts have led to displacement and human rights abuses, estimating that up to 300 million people could be negatively affected if social impacts are not properly assessed.