Background: A Cohesive African Push for Wildlife Integrity
The idea of a Global Wildlife for Climate Action Declaration is gaining traction among African leaders who, at a recent side event during COP30 in Belém, Brazil, signaled their intent to push this framework forward. The move reflects a growing consensus across the continent that wildlife preservation and climate resilience are inextricably linked. As nations adhere to ambitious emissions targets, there is increasing recognition that healthy ecosystems—ranging from forests and savannas to wetlands—play a decisive role in buffering climate shocks, supporting livelihoods, and maintaining biodiversity corridors that are essential for adaptation and resilience.
The COP31 Horizon and What a Declaration Could Deliver
Set to be launched at COP31 in 2026, the Global Wildlife for Climate Action Declaration would likely articulate commitments across several pillars: protecting critical habitats, strengthening anti-poaching and wildlife trafficking measures, integrating wildlife considerations into climate finance, and fostering regional regimes to monitor and report progress. For African nations, known for their vast wildlife ecosystems—from the savannas of East and Southern Africa to the Congo Basin—such a declaration could formalize cross-border cooperation and attract targeted funding for conservation-led climate resilience projects.
Why Africa Is Central to the Initiative
Africa’s wildlife assets are not only cultural and ecological treasures but also vital economic drivers through tourism and ecosystem services. Loss of biodiversity undermines food security, water availability, and livelihoods for millions. The proposed declaration emphasizes sustainable preservation as a climate action pathway, aligning conservation with development goals. Moreover, the continent’s experience with ecosystem-based adaptation—such as corridor planning, community-managed reserves, and policy innovations—offers practical models that could inform a global framework.
Key Components to Expect in the Declaration
While the final text remains to be negotiated, several elements are likely to feature prominently:
- Strategic protection of biodiversity-rich landscapes and wildlife corridors critical for climate resilience.
- Strengthened governance to combat illegal wildlife trafficking and improve enforcement across borders.
- Integration of wildlife and ecosystem services into climate finance mechanisms and national adaptation plans.
- Capacity building and technology transfer for monitoring wildlife health and habitat changes.
- Inclusive participation of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in decision-making and benefit-sharing.
<h2 Opportunities for Global Collaboration
The declaration would aim to catalyze collaboration among governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector. By creating measurable targets and transparent reporting, the framework could attract grant funding for habitat restoration, anti-poaching units, and wildlife-friendly climate-smart agriculture. Partnerships with regional bodies—such as the African Union and regional economic communities—could streamline implementation, ensuring that conservation actions are aligned with broader climate and development strategies.
<h2 Implications for Policy and Practice
If adopted, the declaration could influence national policies by embedding ecosystem-based approaches in climate strategies, land-use planning, and disaster risk reduction. It would also encourage data sharing and standardized metrics for evaluating wildlife health and habitat integrity, enabling more effective tracking of progress toward climate and biodiversity goals. The anticipated launch at COP31 would mark a milestone, signaling a broader recognition that wildlife stewardship is integral to climate governance on a global scale.
<h2 What Comes Next
As African leaders, conservationists, and policymakers prepare for COP31 in 2026, momentum built at COP30 highlights a shared commitment to protecting wildlife while advancing climate action. The side event hosted by the World Federation for Animals indicates growing civil society support, amplifying the call for a robust, action-oriented declaration. Stakeholders at every level, from local communities to international financiers, will be watching closely as negotiators translate intent into a concrete, implementable framework.
