Climate change is severely impacting natural resources and biodiversity, as highlighted by recent reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and discussions at UN Conferences of the Parties (COPs), which express deep concerns over ecosystem degradation [ccf88d1a]. The alarming statistics reveal that approximately 12 million hectares of forest are lost annually due to deforestation, and 22% of animal species are at high risk of extinction [ccf88d1a].
In light of these challenges, Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) has emerged as a crucial strategy for ecological regeneration and enhancing social resilience. EbA projects not only address environmental degradation but also generate significant social and ecological co-benefits [ccf88d1a]. The implementation of EbA in Bangladesh aligns with the goals set forth in the Paris Climate Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices that protect biodiversity while fostering economic growth [ccf88d1a].
As the global community grapples with the implications of biodiversity loss, the integration of innovative financial instruments and metrics, such as gross ecosystem product (GEP) accounting, is essential for aligning economic success with environmental health. The World Wildlife Fund's 2024 Living Planet Report indicates that wildlife populations have declined by 73% since 1970, with significant losses in Latin America and the Caribbean [ef25c2c6]. The World Bank estimates that biodiversity collapse could result in a potential loss of US$2.7 trillion by 2030, underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues [ef25c2c6].
As we approach the upcoming UN biodiversity summit (COP16), it is crucial for financial institutions and governments to prioritize biodiversity conservation in their policies and practices. Ignoring these pressing concerns could lead to dire economic and ecological consequences, making it imperative to adopt a more holistic approach to measuring success that includes the health of our ecosystems [06ac8a8b].