Notification 2017-038

Dear Madam/Sir, I would like to draw your attention to the recent notification from the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) regarding the expert reviews of the second order drafts of the thematic assessment on land degradation and restoration (Deliverable 3bi) and of the four regional assessments (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Americas, and Europe and Central Asia) on biodiversity and ecosystem services (Deliverable 2b), as well as the first order drafts of their summaries for policymakers. The review will take place over eight weeks. The review of the land degradation and restoration assessment, as well as the review of the assessments for Africa, Asia-Pacific and Europe and Central Asia will take place from 1 May until 26 June 2017. The review of the assessment for the Americas will take place from 29 May until 24 July 2017. Considering the relevance of these IPBES deliverables for the work of the Convention, I encourage you to participate or, otherwise, contribute to these processes. Governments and experts wishing to participate in the review process need to first register at the IPBES website (http://www.ipbes.net/user/register?destination=sod-review), if they have not already done so. Further information on the review process is available at: http://www.ipbes.net/article/external-review-ipbes-assessments-governments-and-experts. Please accept, Madam/Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Executive Secretary

To: CBD National Focal Points, SBSTTA Focal Points and relevant organizations