The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework: monitoring biodiversity targets 

COP16 is the first biodiversity conference since the world agreed on the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF) at COP15 in 2022. This ambitious framework sets targets to halt global biodiversity loss by 2030, with the long-term vision of living in harmony with nature by 2050. In this blog, we discuss the system used to monitor the implementation of the KM-GBF and progress towards the targets – the so-called monitoring framework. What does this framework entail? Why is it crucial? And what steps can we expect during COP16 to measure and drive progress? Continue reading for insights into these crucial topics to be addressed during the COP. 

Header photo: Páramo de Ocetá in Boyacá © Joerg Steber 

What is the monitoring framework for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework? 

The monitoring framework of the KM-GBF plays a crucial role in achieving the targets by using indicators to measure progress. The framework includes both main indicators for national, regional and global monitoring, as well as supplementary and component indicators that provide more detailed insight into the status of different targets. At COP15, the framework for monitoring biodiversity was adopted, but indicators are not yet available for all biodiversity targets in the KM-GBF. Because some targets are complex, it is not always possible to collect the necessary data. To fill these gaps, simple yes/no indicators have been developed. These binary indicators look in a practical way at whether national policies exist to achieve the targets. At COP16, these binary indicators will be negotiated so that each target in the monitoring system has at least one indicator. 

It is crucial to agree on a monitoring framework as complete as possible at COP16, as this is the last COP before the seventh national reporting for the CBD is due on 28 February 2026. The basis for reporting are the indicators, so these do need to be available. 

How does IUCN contribute to monitoring? 

IUCN is an important data supplier for the main indicators of the KM-GBF. For example, through the indicators ‘Red List of Ecosystems’, ‘Extend of natural ecosystems’, ‘Red List Index’, and ‘Coverage of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures’. Several sub-indicators apply IUCN’s Global Ecosystem Typology. IUCN will continue to work with Convention Parties to further develop and implement biodiversity monitoring. 

In addition, IUCN provides Technical Support Centres worldwide to provide technical and scientific support to Convention Parties for the realisation of the KM-GBF. This support is badly needed, especially for countries in the Global South to strengthen their monitoring systems. 

How does the Netherlands contribute to monitoring? 

The Netherlands is confronted with a major biodiversity challenge. Only through an ambitious and effective approach can we restore nature together. The National Dashboard Biodiversity is an independent website that shows the state of biodiversity in the Netherlands, largely based on the goals of the KM-GBF. 

What is IUCN NL doing to monitor biodiversity in the Global South? 

IUCN NL is committed to monitoring biodiversity in the Global South. Technology plays an increasing role in this. The more digital technologies like drones, satellite imagery and camera traps develop, the more effective they become within the management, protection and restoration of nature. Illegal activities can thus be detected more easily, making the work of conservationists not only easier, but also safer. 

Read more about our biodiversity monitoring work: 

• Our work: technology & nature conservation 
• In Dutch: Innovative technologies for nature conservation 

Read the other blogs in our series on CBD COP16: 

• What is a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan? 
• Funding for biodiversity during COP16 
• What will happen during COP16?