Nations agree to fund biodiversity protection efforts

Nations reached a significant agreement on funding to protect nature during UN talks in Rome on February 27. This deal follows a previous deadlock at a meeting in Cali, Colombia, and aims to raise billions for biodiversity protection. The agreement includes a goal to deliver $200 billion annually for nature by 2030, with $30 billion from wealthier countries to support poorer nations. The decision on establishing a specific biodiversity fund will be made at the 2028 COP. Delegates emphasized the importance of accountability and monitoring to ensure progress on biodiversity targets. The talks also resulted in a new fund to share profits from genetic data with local communities and the establishment of a body to represent Indigenous interests.