How conserving biodiversity can benefit Latin American and Caribbean cities
In recent decades we have witnessed the rapid transformation of urban spaces due to factors such as the development of cities, population growth and migratory waves. By 2050, two-thirds of the world's population is expected to reside in cities or urban centers, according to the UN.
Traditionally, the development of a city has been influenced by economic, political, geographical and social factors. Recently, however, there has been a growing recognition of the need for adaptive urban development policies and models capable of meeting the challenges of climate change. This shift underscores the importance of integrating environmental considerations into urban planning and decision-making processes.
Why is biodiversity in urban areas so important?
Promoting biodiversity in cities can help tackle the climate change crisis. Incorporating it into urban development not only improves quality of life, but also contributes to the sustainability of cities. Among the many benefits of urban biodiversity are climate regulation, air and water purification, as well as mental and physical health benefits for the population.
The presence of biodiversity can also improve the environmental resilience of cities and enhance their economic value by increasing the value of real estate and tourist attractiveness. Urban planners must therefore integrate biodiversity conservation into their strategies to create cities that coexist harmoniously with the natural environment.
At the UN Habitat Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya, in June 2023, a resolution on biodiverse and resilient cities was adopted to integrate biodiversity and ecosystem services into urban and territorial planning. Sponsored by Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Germany, Pakistan, Peru, Singapore and Uruguay, this resolution encourages a change in urbanization with the key objective of transforming cities into biodiverse and resilient places, promoting the integration of biodiversity and ecosystem services in the planning of cities and territories.
Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are among the world's most biodiverse regions. According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), approximately 60% of the planet's terrestrial life and diverse marine and freshwater species are found in this region.
The LAC region is home to three of the five countries with the highest number of birds, amphibians, mammals, reptiles, fish and plants in the world. The Amazon region alone contains 10% of the world's biodiversity. This vast biodiversity is not only a treasure trove of natural wealth, but also a catalyst for opportunities in various sectors.
What are the benefits of Latin America and the Caribbean embracing biodiversity?
In addition to offering an opportunity for better urban development and climate resilience in cities, it offers a plethora of opportunities for LAC in several areas, paving the way for a prosperous future. The region can seize these opportunities by embracing biodiversity conservation and reaping its benefits across a wide range of sectors.
Job creation
A key opportunity lies in the creation of new jobs. Prioritizing the conservation, restoration and sustainable use of biodiversity will generate numerous employment opportunities. Demand for skilled professionals is expected to skyrocket. These range from conservation scientists and environmental consultants to ecotourism operators and park rangers. Increased employment will not only reduce unemployment rates, but will also help revitalize the region's economy.
Economic boost
In addition, the resolution offers a unique opportunity to revitalize local economies. The implementation of conservation and restoration projects can stimulate economic activity if local materials are sourced and local labor is hired. In addition, the enhanced natural landscapes resulting from these initiatives will attract tourists, boosting local businesses and creating a ripple effect throughout the region's economy.
Sustainable investment
Another promising avenue offered by the resolution is sustainable investment. By prioritizing biodiversity and resilient cities, we can attract foreign and domestic investors who are increasingly looking for opportunities that are sustainable and socially responsible. As a result of the injection of investment capital, the region's economy can grow, innovation can flourish and the region's overall competitiveness can improve.
Capacity building
Equipping the workforce with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective biodiversity management is a crucial element of the resolution focused on capacity building. Investing in training and development programs will enable people to drive sustainable practices and lead the region toward a greener future. The result will be an increase in the region's workforce, an increase in economic productivity and the development of a skilled labor pool that can meet environmental challenges.
Environmental protection
It is also important to note that the commitment to substantially increase financial resources for biodiversity conservation represents a unique opportunity for LAC. With this financial support, initiatives can be developed that protect and conserve the region's rich biodiversity, promote sustainable development and safeguard critical ecosystems. As a result of these investments, the region's economy, social well-being and environmental stability will be significantly improved.
Expanding innovation
As a result of the resolution, the region has another opportunity to develop pilot projects and programs. The initiatives, which encompass conservation, restoration and sustainable use measures, will serve as test beds for innovative approaches, as well as models for replication. If these projects are successfully implemented, there will be a ripple effect that will stimulate local economies, foster entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities.
Biodiversity as a Catalyst for Prosperity
By embracing biodiversity conservation, we can drive a world of economic, social and environmental benefits. Every opportunity represents a step toward achieving a prosperous and sustainable future for the region, from job creation and sustainable investments to capacity building and pilot projects. We should seize these opportunities, foster cross-sector collaborations and work towards a shared vision of a prosperous LAC, where biodiversity conservation serves as a catalyst for progress and prosperity.
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