INBO leads negotiation for Migratory Species Convention
We are into the sixth month of Belgium's EU Council presidency. Until 30 June 2024, the European spotlight is on Belgium, and thus also on Flanders. INBO is actively contributing to European and multilateral decision-making during this period.
In February, our INBO colleagues, together with the Environment Department and Agency for the Nature and Forests, led discussions on behalf of the EU for the 14th Conference of the Parties (COP) of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
This convention has strong links with INBO's scientific activities. For instance, this COP approved new guidelines to combat light pollution. It also took decisions on the expansion of linear infrastructure such as roads and canals, and associated impact assessments, and around renewable energy and power lines. It also took additional measures to protect 21 species, and decisions around eel protection. COP14 also adopted the world's first report on the status of migratory species, in synergy with the work of the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES). This report highlights the importance of scientific knowledge for effective decision-making. Thanks to the efforts of INBO and the Department of Environment, a Global Partnership for Ecological Connectivity has also been launched. This recognises the need for cross-border cooperation for migratory species.
>> More on the work of the Belgian delegation
Image above: (c) Kiara Worth