Landscape approaches is an umbrella term for integrated approaches that consider and integrate the multiple uses and the multiple users of a landscape or seascape. They assume connectivity between different management and governance regimes from strict protected areas to managed areas used for production and other purposes. In the context of the KMGBF, this operationalizes the practical integration of Targets 1,2 and 3.

It allows for a deeper reckoning of the preferences of a spectrum of stakeholders from policy planners across different sectors to indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs), and the underlying values that inform these preferences. It also allows understanding power asymmetries, identifying synergies, spillovers and tradeoffs and addressing them in a manner that fosters socio-ecological resilience. In this sense, such approaches contribute directly to operationalizing the principles of ‘whole of government’ and ‘whole of society’ approaches that allow for inclusive and pluralistic planning and implementation across different scales, and link to several other Targets of the KMGBF across the different Goals.

 Operationalizing Landscape Approaches involves among others, developing clear spatial plans, understanding and defining stakeholder roles and responsibilities, devise flexible and inclusive implementation and monitoring plans, financing mechanisms appropriate for scale of implementation (local to global) and related activities. 

This side event will highlight how Landscape Approaches can be embedded into national biodiversity planning and implementation, by showcasing and building on various existing initiatives that are working to support and promote integrated and coherent 'whole of society' approaches beyond rhetoric and providing specific available guidance and tools to implementors.

Speakers and Panelists representing a spectrum of interests in decisions related to use, management and governance of landscapes/seascapes will highlight good practices, opportunities and challenges in undertaking such integrated approaches. including active interactions with the audience.