The ability to accurately recognize species underpins our knowledge of biodiversity and, with the current rate of decline of biodiversity there is a greater need to strengthen the tools that help us understand what we have and what we are losing, as a means to support and monitor the different targets needed to revert the loss of biodiversity by 2050.

In this context, it is important to highlight the role that taxonomy plays in the success of the implementation and monitoring of the Post 20202 Global Biodiversity Framework where many indicators are based on lists, indexes or regional planning with a strong taxonomic component. These require a sound taxonomic knowledge and continuous support from Parties in order to be updated. A deficient taxonomic capacity would provide inadequate baselines and jeopardize the final goal of protecting global biodiversity.

This event aims to build momentum on the relationship between taxonomy and biodiversity, highlighting the need to include taxonomic information in decision making, especially in the context of the new targets set through the 2020 GBF.