Minister’s unresolved return from UN Nature Summit

At the conclusion of the COP16 UN biodiversity summit in Cali, Colombia, a detailed financial plan for nature conservation failed to be agreed upon, which disappointed Danish Environment Minister Magnus Heunicke. Heunicke stated that the major deal failed due to financing issues and noted Denmark’s pledge of DKK 100 million to the global biodiversity fund. Approximately 23,000 delegates from nearly 200 countries participated in negotiations that extended 12 hours past due time, evidencing a divide between wealthy and poor countries. Heunicke hopes for a deal by Christmas but acknowledges the challenge without physical proximity. He was, however, pleased that ocean protection discussions continued. Previous global targets set in Canada to protect 30% of nature by 2030 are widely unfulfilled, with more than 85% of signed countries not submitting updated action plans as required.