Within the confines of COP28, the United Nations climate change conference in Dubai, a pressing issue has come to light - the detrimental impact of climate change on migratory wildlife species, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan reported. A pivotal press conference unfolded to unveil a report from the UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.
Scheduled for presentation at the 14th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP14) in Samarkand from February 12-17, 2024, the report underscores the direct consequences of climate change on various migratory species. These species play a crucial role in supporting ecosystems, aiding in climate change mitigation, and bolstering resilience to environmental risks.
Steve Barclay, Secretary of State for Environment, Food, and Agriculture of the United Kingdom, stressed the urgent need for coordinated global action to protect the environment.
"Nature is the foundation of our lives—ecosystems, food, water security, a healthy economy depend on all of us," Steve Barclay, remarked, outlining the UK's commitment to protecting 30 percent of land and sea by 2030.
The event emphasized the necessity for swift action to aid vulnerable migratory species in adapting to a changing climate. Establishing comprehensive networks of protected areas and other conservation measures is deemed critical. In some cases, direct human intervention, such as the relocation of vulnerable populations, becomes imperative.
Uzbekistan, a nation significantly impacted by climate change, pledged to strengthen regional cross-border cooperation and support efforts at national, regional, and global levels. The upcoming CMS COP14 meeting in Samarkand will shed light on critical issues surrounding migratory species.
The UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) has been a global platform for conservation since its inception in 1979. With 132 participating countries, it addresses the needs of terrestrial, aquatic, and migratory bird species and their habitats.
The comprehensive report, "Climate Change and Migratory Species: A Review of Impacts, Conservation Actions, Indicators, and Ecosystem Services," was commissioned by the UK government and presented with the assistance of the Nature Conservation Committee. Prepared by the Convention on Climate Change and the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), the report sheds light on the adverse effects of global warming on various migratory species.
The BTO, the UK's leading ornithological charity, founded in 1932, utilizes science, monitoring, and data to make informed environmental decisions. With a growing number of members and around 60,000 volunteer bird watchers contributing to surveys, the BTO plays a crucial role in conservation efforts.
The report highlights the impact of climate change on migration patterns, leading to mismatches between breeding seasons and prey abundance. Biodiversity decline globally is accelerating, with climate change identified as a major driver. The interconnectedness of biodiversity loss and climate change underscores the importance of nature-based solutions.
Climate Change Adviser Professor Colin Galbraith emphasized the need for global awareness and urgent action.
"This report provides strong scientific evidence that climate change is having a significant impact on many species that depend on migration around the world," Professor Colin Galbraith said, urging governments to prioritize nature-based solutions.
The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), the UK's nature organization, echoed the call for action. Changes in water supply, habitat destruction, and extreme climate events threaten migratory species. The loss of wetlands and reduced river flows adversely affect fish and waterfowl migration, impacting ecosystem function and climate change mitigation.
As the conference concluded, the collective call for strengthened international cooperation resounded, emphasizing the need to shield migratory species from the adverse consequences of climate change.
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