JAPANESE JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) was adopted by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) as the new global target for the period 2022 - 2030. In this special issue, we compare the KMGBF with its predecessors, thus the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011 - 2020 and the Aichi Biodiversity Targets (ABTs), using the specific/measurable/ambitious/realistic/time-bound (SMART) perspective. We found that, in general, KMGBF was SMARTer than the ABTs. For example, the KMGBF includes 10 quantitative elements with numeric targets, including the conservation target of 30% of areas by 2030, the so-called “30 by 30”. Relevant elements are considered here: space-based conservation of areas other than protected areas, genetic diversity, and the oceans. During discussions on resource mobilization and digital sequence information (DSI) on genetic resources, developing countries have emphasized the need for fair and equitable sharing of the benefits afforded by DSI. The Conference of the Parties to the CBD thus adopted a framework that integrates resource mobilization with DSI; both are viewed as implementation measures - and often as bargaining conditions - by developing countries.

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The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) was adopted in 2022 at the 15th COP (Conference of the Parties) to the CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity), held in Montreal, Canada, with the aim of reversing the current biodiversity crisis. The goals and targets of the KMGBF are comprehensive and include ambitious benchmarks such as “30 by 30”, alongside the consideration of minorities, including indigenous peoples, women, and children, as well elements of the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) and SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals). Two of the KMGBF’s four goals and eight of its 23 targets are numerical. The KMGBF also provides frameworks for measuring the achievements of each party, using various indicators, and a platform for reporting and evaluation. Overall, the KMGBF’s goals and targets are SMART (Specific Measurable Ambitious Realistic Time-bound), in contrast to the Aichi Targets. However, there are many overlapping elements within the KMGBF, and the complex wording of its goals and targets has resulted in difficulty with regard to understanding the differences between them. Furthermore, some indicators are unsuitable for measuring goal achievement$2014probably due to the priority given to using common indicators for all parties$2014and have been left to expert meetings for further consideration. This review examines the goals, targets, and indicators of the KMGBF based on comparisons with the Aichi Targets. Key points and essential information are explained; data gaps, both nationally and internationally, are identified; and the actions that must be taken to achieve the KMGBF are considered.

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