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International biodiversity commitments welcomed

A range of international commitments on conserving biodiversity agreed this week are a positive step forward – but the UK will continue to press for international action.

Speaking following the conclusion of the Convention on Biological Diversity Conference of the Parties in Bonn, Wildlife Minister Joan Ruddock said:

“To conserve the world’s biodiversity we need to work together internationally and it is encouraging that so many nations have demonstrated their commitment to conserving the world’s wildlife through the agreements we have reached this week.

“The agreement to put in place the ways and means to develop an international sustainability standard for biofuels is a positive step forward, and I look forward to working with our international partners to ensure that we reach agreement on this. The UK has been pressing for a sustainability standard on biofuels and will continue to do so.

“A number of other agreements reached this week are also very encouraging. The adoption of the criteria by which international marine protected areas will be designated is welcome and will move us closer to giving our valuable marine life the protection it needs.

“However, we cannot be complacent. The world’s natural resources cut across national boundaries and the UK will continue to press for international action to ensure that we protect them for all of us in the future.”

Other agreements reached at the Conference of the Parties include:

  • An indefinite moratorium has been agreed on dumping nutrients such as iron and nitrogen into the oceans to promote the growth of phytoplankton and absorb excess carbon dioxide, with the exception of scientific studies looking at the efficiency of ocean seeding.
  • A detailed road map has been agreed that will lead to an international regime by 2010 to ensure that people in developing countries benefit from discoveries using their rich biodiversity and genetic resources.

Page published: 2 June 2008