Climate Change and Biodiversity: Interlinkages and policy options

Climate change and biodiversity decline are major challenges of our time. Both are predominantly caused by human activities, with profound consequences for people and the ecosystems on which we depend.

In 2021 and 2022, major United Nations conferences on biodiversity (COP15) and on climate change (COP26) will be held, providing an opportunity for governments to focus international attention on the interconnectedness and interdependence of climate change and biodiversity. Some policy measures are beneficial in both areas, helping to mitigate and adapt to climate change as well as to conserve and restore biodiversity. However, this is not guaranteed, and some climate actions can undermine biodiversity goals.

This IAP Statement examines interconnections between biodiversity and climate change and outlines how measures that benefit biodiversity have the potential to support climate action, and how some aspects of climate action can support biodiversity. It also discusses instances where addressing climate change can undermine efforts to enhance biodiversity.

Download the full IAP Statement 'Climate Change and Biodiversity: Interlinkages and policy options' and read the press release World academies launch an action plan to combat both climate change and biodiversity decline, and discover the infographic on climate change and biodiversity.