The Society for the Conservation of Nature and support partners on Friday, September 27, 2024 jointly ended a one-day technical working session in Monrovia.
Speaking at the opening session, the Program Manager of the Society for the Conservation of Nature, Michael Taire, said Liberia is committed to developing a 30×30 national plan to protect thirty percent of its terrestrial and marine areas by 2030.
Taire told the gathering that the development of Liberia’s 30×30 national plan aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, stating further that the Government of Liberia (GOL), through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is leading the development of the 20×30 plan.
As part of said effort, he disclosed that Liberia recently completed and submitted her national targets aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework.
At the same time, the program manager of the Society for the Conservation of Nature further informed the body that Rainforest Trust has contracted the society for the conversation of nature of Liberia to support planning and logistics.
According to him, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework represents a global commitment to have and reverse biodiversity loss, and it calls for the protection of at least thirty percent of Liberia’s land marine areas by the year 2030.
He stated that such ambitious target is not just a goal; it is a necessity for the sustainability of Liberia’s ecosystems, economy and communities.
Taire acknowledged that Liberia is blessed with rich biodiversity, which he pointed out is integral to the cultural heritage and economic development of the country. He emphasized further that the forests, wetlands and coastal areas are home to countless species, thus providing essential services for the people.
Regrettably, he pointed out that these precious resources are under threat from varied factors, including deforestation, climate change, and unsustainable land use practices.
Taire emphasized that the 30×30 initiative presents an opportunity to safeguard the natural heritage while promoting sustainable development for the country.
Meanwhile, the day-long technical working session was jointly organized by the Society for the Conservation of Nature and supporting partners.