The Aichi Biodiversity Targets: achievements for marine conservation and priorities beyond 2020.

Hannah Carr,Filippo Ferrario,Loubna Boutahar,Marina Abas,Kayelyn R Simmons,Olivia N Caretti,Anna Zivian,Abbie S.A Chapman,Wing Yan Chan,Sarah N De Mendonça,Abigail Engleman,Jana Verdura

doi:10.7717/peerj.9743

Abstract

In 2010 the Conference of the Parties (COP) for the Convention on Biological Diversity revised and updated a Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020, which included the Aichi Biodiversity Targets. Here a group of early career researchers mentored by senior scientists, convened as part of the 4th World Conference on Marine Biodiversity, reflects on the accomplishments and shortfalls under four of the Aichi Targets considered highly relevant to marine conservation: target 6 (sustainable fisheries), 11 (protection measures), 15 (ecosystem restoration and resilience) and 19 (knowledge, science and technology). We conclude that although progress has been made towards the targets, these have not been fully achieved for the marine environment by the 2020 deadline. The progress made, however, lays the foundations for further work beyond 2020 to work towards the 2050 Vision for Biodiversity. We identify key priorities that must be addressed to better enable marine biodiversity conservation efforts moving forward.

Highlights

Human well-being depends on protecting and preserving the functioning of oceans and coastal ecosystems
These are linked closely to the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and Goal 14, which focuses on the need to conserve the ocean and its resources, is of particular relevance to marine conservation efforts
Progress has been made towards achieving the goals of the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity for the marine environment, the Aichi targets reviewed have not been fully achieved

Summary

INTRODUCTION

Human well-being depends on protecting and preserving the functioning of oceans and coastal ecosystems. The Aichi Biodiversity Targets: achievements for marine conservation and priorities beyond 2020. In 2015 UN Member States adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which set the direction for achieving global development while protecting the environment we rely on. These are linked closely to the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and Goal 14, which focuses on the need to conserve the ocean and its resources, is of particular relevance to marine conservation efforts. The group discusses both the accomplishments towards and shortfalls of achieving these four targets and suggests priorities for marine biodiversity conservation to be considered in the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (“post-2020 Framework”).

B: Reduce the direct pressures on biodiversity and promote sustainable use

D: Enhance the benefits to all from biodiversity and

19 E: Enhance implementation through participatory

Findings

CONCLUSION