Unprecedented mobilization at COP15
In December 2022, Quebec hosted the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15), which led to the adoption of an historic new agreement for the protection of nature, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
During this event, Quebec civil society, led by SNAP Québec, launched the Montreal Call, an invitation to stakeholders from around the world to continue and accelerate reflections on solutions enabling the implementation of changes to a damaging economic model and value system for nature at future COPs (both biodiversity and climate).
Systemic changes needed to address biodiversity loss
The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) agree that biodiversity loss cannot be stopped and reversed without effecting profound changes to the economic structure and values of our society.
Based on IPBES scientists’ findings and recommendations, the Montreal Call recognizes:
- the need to urgently address the underlying causes* of biodiversity loss
- the need for transformative change to our socio-economic and value systems s
- the desire to advance the idea of a good life that does not rely on an unsustainable increase in material extraction and consumption
What changes do we need to make in our economic, financial and monetary systems to stay within planetary boundaries? What values in our society are compatible with biodiversity conservation?
A discussion on solutions
SNAP Québec wishes to continue the dialogue initiated at COP15 with the Montreal Call and explore possible solutions to bring about these transformative changes.
Numerous researchers and intellectuals have examined these issues, and here are some examples of avenues to explore:
- Buen vivir (living well) indicators and planning tools
- Alternative and complementary currencies
- Regulations on advertising
- Mechanisms for recognizing the Rights of Nature
- Low-tech solutions
