Monitoring framework for the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework

Currently, a draft monitoring framework for the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework is being developed.

This monitoring framework will provide a basis for measuring progress toward the four goals and 20 targets of the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. The draft monitoring framework was developed and opened for peer review from 25 June to 15 August. A total of 60 countries and 179 Observer entities provided submissions. These included a wide range of international, regional and national non-governmental organization (NGOs), academic and research institutions, United Nations entities, multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs), national and local government entities, private sector entities, and others (e.g. scientific collaborations, indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs), women, youth). Twelve national statistical offices participated as Observers.

Based on this feedback, an updated draft monitoring framework was developed and released in November 2020. The comments included detailed indicator proposals, a need for simplification and reducing duplication, focusing on national ownership and national data sources, applying a stratified approach (with a small number of Headline indicators) and improving the relevance of the monitoring framework for national planning and reporting. It is in this context that the importance of statistical standards was highlighted, including the System of Environmental Economic Accounting (SEEA) Ecosystems Accounts. The comments received not only demonstrate a high interest in the monitoring framework but will also add value and buy-in for the development and implementation of the monitoring framework. It is anticipated that this monitoring framework will be a major step forward in terms of commitment and action toward monitoring the world’s biodiversity. 

The revised draft of the monitoring framework will be reviewed during the twenty-fourth meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA 24) will be held in the first quarter of 2021, conditions allowing.