Daily Current Affairs : 31-August-2023
The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) is currently in the spotlight as its 140+ members gather in Bonn, Germany, for the 10th plenary session. This significant meeting revolves around a critical agenda item: the scientific assessment report on “Invasive Alien Species and their Control.” Invasive alien species, a major contributor to biodiversity loss, have gained prominence in the global conservation dialogue, particularly in the context of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) adopted by 193 nations in 2022. IPBES10 marks the first gathering of this global body since the GBF’s adoption, and its outcomes carry significant implications for the future of biodiversity and ecosystem services.
The Significance of IPBES10
Unpacking the Agenda: Invasive Alien Species and GBF
The primary focus of IPBES10 is the forthcoming scientific assessment report on “Invasive Alien Species and their Control.” This assessment is vital because invasive alien species pose a formidable threat to biodiversity and ecosystems worldwide. They disrupt native ecosystems, outcompete local species, and can even lead to extinctions. Addressing this issue is a key component of the Kunming-Montreal GBF, highlighting its relevance to global biodiversity conservation efforts. The GBF aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030, making the assessment of invasive alien species an essential element in achieving this ambitious target.
IPBES: Bridging Science and Policy for Biodiversity
Before delving into the significance of IPBES10, it’s essential to understand the IPBES itself:
Establishment and Purpose: IPBES, established in 2012 in Panama City by 94 governments, is an independent intergovernmental body. Its core mission is to strengthen the interface between science and policy concerning biodiversity and ecosystem services. By doing so, it contributes to the conservation of biodiversity, long-term human well-being, and sustainable development.
Not a UN Body: While IPBES operates independently, it receives secretariat services from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This partnership underscores the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem services in the global environmental agenda.
Structure of IPBES
IPBES operates through a structured framework that includes various components:
- Plenary: The governing body of IPBES consists of representatives from member states who convene annually to make key decisions.
- Observers: This category includes states not yet part of IPBES, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and other biodiversity-related conventions, as well as relevant UN bodies.
- Bureau: Comprising the IPBES Chair, four Vice-Chairs, and additional officers, the Bureau oversees the administrative functions of IPBES.
- Multidisciplinary Expert Panel (MEP): This panel consists of experts from each of the five UN regions, responsible for supervising all scientific and technical functions of IPBES.
- Stakeholders: This group includes all contributors to and end-users of IPBES outputs, ensuring that a broad range of voices are considered in the platform’s work.
- Expert Groups & Taskforces: Composed of selected scientists and knowledge holders, these groups carry out IPBES assessments and other deliverables, ensuring a robust scientific foundation for policy recommendations.
- Secretariat: Responsible for ensuring the efficient functioning of IPBES by providing support to the Plenary, Bureau, and MEP.
Important Points:
- IPBES10: 10th plenary session of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) held in Bonn, Germany.
- Key Agenda: Focus on the scientific assessment report on “Invasive Alien Species and their Control.”
- Invasive Alien Species: Major drivers of biodiversity loss and central to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
- IPBES10’s Significance: First meeting after the adoption of GBF, making it crucial for global biodiversity conservation efforts.
About IPBES:
- Independent intergovernmental body aiming to strengthen the science-policy interface for biodiversity and ecosystem services.
- Established in 2012 in Panama City by 94 governments.
- Not a United Nations body but receives secretariat services from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
- Headquarters located in Bonn, Germany.
Structure of IPBES:
- Plenary: Governing body consisting of representatives from member states, meeting annually.
- Observers: Includes states not yet members of IPBES, relevant biodiversity-related conventions, and UN bodies.
- Bureau: Comprises the IPBES Chair, Vice-Chairs, and additional officers overseeing administrative functions.
- Multidisciplinary Expert Panel (MEP): Experts from each of the five UN regions supervising scientific and technical functions.
- Stakeholders: Encompasses all contributors to and end-users of IPBES outputs.
- Expert Groups & Taskforces: Selected scientists and knowledge holders conducting IPBES assessments and deliverables.
- Secretariat: Ensures the efficient functioning of IPBES, supporting Plenary, Bureau, and MEP.
Why In News
The 10th plenary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has brought together over 140 members in Bonn, Germany. This landmark gathering aims to address pressing global challenges related to biodiversity and ecosystem services through collaborative research and policy discussions.
MCQs about IPBES10
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What is the primary focus of IPBES10?
A. Strengthening biodiversity conventions
B. Addressing climate change
C. Scientific assessment of invasive alien species
D. Promoting sustainable development
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Which international framework is closely associated with the discussion of invasive alien species at IPBES10?
A. Paris Climate Agreement
B. Kyoto Protocol
C. Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)
D. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
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Where is the headquarters of IPBES located?
A. New York, USA
B. Geneva, Switzerland
C. Bonn, Germany
D. Panama City, Panama
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Which component of IPBES is responsible for overseeing the administrative functions of the organization?
A. Plenary
B. Multidisciplinary Expert Panel (MEP)
C. Stakeholders
D. Bureau
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