Beyond the Negotiations: The connections driving COP17

Walking into the ICCF’s COP17 Parliamentary reception, I felt the energy in the room. It was more than just another networking event; it was a gathering of passionate individuals shaping conversations around biodiversity.

Connecting for Biodiversity

The event brought together people from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common goal: understanding the challenges facing our natural world. We were eager to discover what COP17, hosted in Armenia, would bring to the table. For us, it was an opportunity not only to listen but also to connect with individuals actively contributing to the future of biodiversity.

H.E. Varuzhan Nersesyan, the Ambassador of Armenia to the United Kingdom, emphasized that this COP focuses on implementation. This approach aims for greater success rather than merely setting broad policy goals.

The Rich Biodiversity of Armenia

This focus is particularly fitting for Armenia, a country renowned for its rich biodiversity. It boasts ecosystems ranging from semi-deserts to alpine meadows. Armenia is home to more than 3,800 plant species and over 17,000 animal species. Among them, the Polyommatus eriwanensis, or Erivan Anomalous Blue, serves as the official mascot for the conference, symbolizing our call to “take action for nature.”

The event also featured remarks from Steve Kolenberg and Barry Gardiner MP. They reaffirmed the importance of discussions around natural capital. Biodiversity activism should not be viewed as distant; it impacts real animals and ecosystems. At BOWW, we take pride in sharing individual stories that illuminate the specific and real lives of wildlife.

The Power of Storytelling

One of the most intriguing aspects of the event was witnessing how these ideas extended beyond the speeches. The importance of diverse perspectives shone brightly. While we all agreed that sharing stories is vital, it can be challenging to reconcile the need for positive endings when, for many, there are none.

From these discussions, we realized that our reach can extend from marine life in oceans to fungi in soil. The most valuable takeaway from this parliamentary reception is that change rarely occurs in isolation. It happens when ideas, experiences, and people come together. That’s the community BOWW continues to build.

Taking Action for Conservation

As we reflect on the conversations at COP17, we must ask ourselves: How can we contribute to this movement? Each of us has a role to play in the preservation of our planet. Whether it’s through advocacy, education, or simply sharing our passion for wildlife, every action counts.

At BOWW, we strive to inspire young people to take action for conservation. We believe that by connecting with wildlife, we can foster a global community passionate about protecting our planet. Together, we can create a brighter future for all living beings.

Written by Marissa Promesse, University of Warwick