What are the key international agreements and conventions related to biodiversity conservation?

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What are the key international agreements and conventions related to biodiversity conservation?

There are several key international agreements and conventions related to biodiversity conservation. These agreements aim to address the global decline in biodiversity and promote sustainable development. Some of the most important ones include:

1. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): Adopted in 1992, the CBD is the most comprehensive international treaty on biodiversity conservation. It sets out principles for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, as well as the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from genetic resources.

2. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): While primarily focused on climate change, the UNFCCC recognizes the interlinkages between climate change and biodiversity. It promotes actions to mitigate climate change and enhance the resilience of ecosystems and biodiversity.

3. Ramsar Convention on Wetlands: Established in 1971, the Ramsar Convention is an intergovernmental treaty that emphasizes the conservation and wise use of wetlands. Wetlands are crucial for biodiversity as they support a wide range of species and provide various ecosystem services.

4. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES): CITES, implemented in 1975, aims to regulate international trade in endangered species. It ensures that the trade does not threaten the survival of species and promotes their conservation.

5. World Heritage Convention: The World Heritage Convention, adopted in 1972, identifies and protects natural and cultural sites of outstanding universal value. Many of these sites are important for biodiversity conservation, such as national parks and protected areas.

6. Convention on Migratory Species (CMS): The CMS, also known as the Bonn Convention, focuses on the conservation of migratory species and their habitats. It facilitates international cooperation to address threats to migratory species and their ecosystems.

7. International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA): The ITPGRFA, adopted in 2001, aims to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. It promotes the fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from their use.

These international agreements and conventions provide a framework for countries to collaborate and take collective action to protect biodiversity and ensure its sustainable use. They encourage the conservation of ecosystems, species, and genetic resources, as well as the equitable sharing of benefits derived from biodiversity.