Nature First Pacific at CBD COP17

Session Overview

Under the theme Nature, People, Culture, Thriving Pacific, this side event will highlight a strong legacy of nature-positive action across the Pacific. It will showcase Pacific-led solutions and examples of resilience driven by practitioners, Indigenous Peoples and local communities, civil society, governments, and regional institutions working at national, subregional, and regional levels. The session will provide a platform to amplify Pacific voices, experiences, and innovations, demonstrating how country-led action is advancing implementation of the Pacific Islands Framework for Nature Conservation 2020 - 2025 while contributing to global biodiversity goals.

Pacific Biodiversity Challenges

Pacific Islands are global hotspots of unique biodiversity, yet they face increasing environmental pressures. Ecological degradation, population growth, changing development needs, resource exploitation, climate change, and pollution are placing growing strain on ecosystems. These pressures are often compounded by the capacity constraints of small island developing States and by insufficient or fragmented financing for nature. Despite these challenges, Pacific countries continue to demonstrate leadership through locally grounded, culturally informed, and community-driven approaches to conservation and sustainable resource management.

Panel Focus

Drawing on established programmes and partnerships, the panel will share practical experiences on how Pacific-led, country-driven, and regionally coordinated solutions can mobilise resources, strengthen national systems, and support Members to meet their obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Global Biodiversity Framework, and global climate and sustainable development agreements. The discussion will highlight how elevating Pacific knowledge, leadership, and country priorities can strengthen global biodiversity action while delivering meaningful outcomes for people and nature.

Intended Outcomes

The Nature First Pacific session will identify focused, integrated pathways for scaling ecosystem-based approaches with measurable impact. It will strengthen recognition of Pacific leadership, amplify Pacific perspectives in global biodiversity discussions, and showcase practical country solutions that can be replicated and supported through stronger partnerships and investment. The session will support Pacific efforts to respond to emerging biodiversity challenges over the coming decade.

Session Format

• Panel: 5–6 speakers

• Moderator: Mr Sefanaia Nawadra, SPREP Director General (to be confirmed)