Notification 2023-123

Dear Madam/Sir, In decision 15/5, the Conference of the Parties adopted a monitoring framework for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This monitoring framework included Headline indicator 7.2 entitled pesticide environmental concentration. The decision noted that this indicator does not yet have a methodology. In the same decision, an Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group (AHTEG) on Indicators for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework was established to support work on the monitoring framework, including to address critical gaps to improve the monitoring framework, in particular on headline indicators that do not have an existing methodology. During its third meeting, the AHTEG on Indicators noted that the Headline indicator 7.2 still does not have methods developed, that an inclusive process would need to be established in order to develop the indicator and that a collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) could provide a way to progress this indicator (see the report of the AHTEG). Accordingly, I would like to inform you that FAO, in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, is convening an expert meeting on this indicator from 23 to 24 January 2024 at FAO Headquarters, in Rome, Italy. The meeting is also expected to contribute to the review of component and complementary indicators related to pesticides. The results of the meeting will be provided to the AHTEG on Indicators for its consideration. I am pleased to invite Parties, other Governments, indigenous peoples and local communities, and relevant organizations to nominate experts for this meeting. Nominations of experts should be submitted in the form of an official letter addressed to the Executive Secretary, clearly indicating the name and full contact details of each nominee, as well as a curriculum vitae, to be sent by e-mail to secretariat@cbd.int as soon as possible, but no later than 30 November 2023. FAO, in consultation with the Secretariat, will take into account regional and gender balance as well as relevant expertise and experience in selecting experts, with a view to selecting 15 experts from countries (3 per region) and up to 15 experts from observer organizations. Please accept, Sir, Madam, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Acting Executive Secretary

To: CBD focal points, ABS national focal points, Cartagena Protocol focal points, SBSTTA focal points, indigenous peoples and local communities and relevant organizations