The biodiversity crisis is a threat to human well-being in all regions of the world. This crisis needs a forceful response. Protecting nature is key to reaching many of the SDGs. Protecting nature will also help us tackle climate change.
In Norway we are now protecting swamps and wetlands. This is a win for both threatened species and for climate. Nature based solutions for climate action should be at the centre of attention both at the Biodiversity COP in Kunming and the Climate COP in Glasgow.
We need to mobilize more resources for biodiversity. We must step up and increase action for nature. Both globally and at home. Norway is responding with increased ambitions.
First. We have strengthened our national target under the Paris Agreement. And we are ready for an ambitious post 2020 agreement on biodiversity.
Second. In December, the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy, led by the president of Palau and myself, will launch a transition agenda for clean, healthy and productive oceans.
There is an enormous growth potential in the ocean economy if we place sustainability at its core. Effective protection, sustainable production and equitable prosperity need to go hand-in-hand.
Third. Norway will continue to work with tropical forest countries to help drive down deforestation. And we will provide support to countries that deliver results.
Several forest countries are taking resolute steps to reduce their deforestation rates. A strong coalition of private companies are signaling willingness to pay for those results. We have standards in place to ensure that emissions reductions are real, additional and lasting. We also have institutions to allow markets to function smoothly.
Let us put in place a coalition to end tropical deforestation.
We need to speed up and scale up action. The biodiversity COP in China is an opportunity for change.
Together we can achieve an ambitious outcome. And ensure effective implementation of the new global targets.