What is the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)?

Disclaimer: this is an automated translation from Italian. Go to the original article.

The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) is a global strategic plan adopted to address the growing biodiversity crisis and to promote urgent and transformative actions. The Global Biodiversity Framework aims to ensure harmonious coexistence between humans and nature by 2050, focusing on concrete and tangible objectives. This strategic framework replaces the Aichi Biodiversity Targets, which expired in 2020, and introduces new challenges and targets for the next decade to reduce human impact on ecosystems.

The Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) focuses on a series of key objectives concerning biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and the sustainable use of natural resources. Among the main objectives are the protection of at least 30% of the planet's lands and oceans by 2030 and the improvement of biodiversity integration into economic policies. Furthermore, the GBF aims to reduce plastic pollution, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and protect threatened species. These objectives are essential to ensure the long-term well-being of global biodiversity while supporting human well-being and ecological resilience.

A central element of the GBF is the Theory of Change, which defines the necessary path to achieve the 2050 vision: living in harmony with nature. The Theory of Change highlights the urgency to transform the relationship between society and biodiversity, promoting an integrated approach that involves all sectors of society. According to this theory, only with profound changes in policies, economic practices, and individual behaviors will it be possible to halt and reverse biodiversity loss. The Theory of Change guides the implementation of the GBF, outlining key actions and the actors involved in the transformation process.

During the COP16 held in Cali, Colombia, in 2024, significant updates emerged for the Global Biodiversity Framework. Among the main novelties, the global commitment to accelerate the adoption of GBF targets was confirmed, with particular attention to biodiversity finance. The crucial role of private investments and public initiatives in ensuring the achievement of goals was emphasized, with the direct involvement of companies and financial institutions. Another significant update concerns the introduction of more rigorous monitoring tools to measure progress towards the GBF targets, as well as the promotion of an impact-based indicator approach that will allow progress to be monitored at the global and national level.

The Global Biodiversity Framework recognizes the fundamental role of companies in protecting biodiversity. They are called to adopt concrete strategies to integrate biodiversity into their daily operations, addressing nature-related risks and promoting more sustainable practices. Sectors such as energy, agriculture, and natural resources are directly linked to ecosystems and species, and for this reason, the GBF aims for a profound transformation in corporate policies. Companies are also urged to monitor and make their environmental impacts transparent, actively contributing to the creation of a more resilient economic system in balance with nature.

This article was created within the project "Biodiversity services EU expansion" (CUP: E43D22000480009) under the call of Regione Lombardia "PR FESR 2021-2027 – LINEA INTERNAZIONALIZZAZIONE 21-27", aimed at supporting the internationalization of Italian companies. 3Bee is the naturetech company that develops innovative technologies for monitoring, protecting, and regenerating biodiversity, supporting companies in defining personalized climate strategies based on the analysis of their impacts and dependencies on nature. With a consolidated portfolio in Italy, Germany, and France and significant partnerships, 3Bee continues its expansion into international markets to create a concrete impact through technology.