Part 13: Protecting Our Planet: Unraveling the Critical Linkages between Climate Change and Biodiversity. A critically linked issue.

Introduction: So today on the climate change planning and programming blog, I explore the urgent need for harmonized policy action and programming to address the critical linkages between climate change and biodiversity. In this article, I delve into the interconnectedness of these two global challenges and highlight key program and policy recommendations to safeguard our planet's future. I think getting to the root of this problem is helping the government budget and finance biodiversity. I support the bio-finance work globally and find it to be very strategic and important work to help governments struggling with what to do. I also believe having a system of national parks is a good idea ( thank you USA for showcasing a good national park system ) and classifying protected areas is an important exercise. I see the whole world needing protection now. Engaging in Biodiversity and climate education with schools and education systems is crucial as are all related sectors and stakeholders and yes as usual is cross-sectoral and multi-stakeholder work.

Here are statistics from recent reports that highlight the alarming state of climate change and its impact on biodiversity:

·??????Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C (October 2018): Human-induced global warming has already reached approximately 1°C above pre-industrial levels. If global warming exceeds 1.5°C, it will significantly increase the risks to ecosystems and biodiversity, with higher risks for species loss and extinction.

·??????Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) Global Assessment Report (May 2019): Approximately 1 million species (out of an estimated 8 million) are at risk of extinction, many within decades, due to human activities. Land degradation, habitat loss, and climate change are the primary drivers of biodiversity loss, exacerbating ecosystem vulnerabilities.

·??????United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) - Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Synthesis Reports: Before 2021, NDC reported that only a small fraction (approximately 20%) of global NDCs include explicit commitments to address biodiversity conservation and climate change simultaneously. However, since 2021 reporting, there has been a positive trend. The 2021 synthesis report states that 92% of countries' new climate action plans now include measures to tackle nature loss, according to a report published by WWF at the Glasgow COP26 climate talks.

·??????Global Environment Outlook (GEO-6) Report by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): Climate change affects marine ecosystems significantly, with over 90% of the world's coral reefs projected to be at risk by 2050, even under a 1.5°C warming scenario. Terrestrial biodiversity is also under threat, with climate change projected to become the largest driver of biodiversity loss by the second half of the century.

·??????Climate Policy Initiative (CPI) Global Landscape of Climate Finance (Annually published): Climate finance for biodiversity-related activities represents a small fraction of total climate finance flows. Access to climate finance remains a challenge for many developing countries, particularly those with high biodiversity and vulnerable ecosystems, limiting their capacity to implement conservation and adaptation measures.

The reports highlight the urgent need for robust policy recommendations and increased investment in climate change mitigation, adaptation, and biodiversity conservation efforts to address the pressing challenges we face.

I. Understanding the Linkages:

Climate Change Impacts on Biodiversity: Climate change poses significant threats to biodiversity worldwide. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and habitat destruction disrupt ecosystems and species interactions. These disruptions can lead to mismatches in species' timing cues for migration, breeding, and hibernation, causing population declines and potential extinctions. Additionally, habitat loss resulting from climate change further exacerbates the decline of biodiversity.

Biodiversity's Role in Climate Change Mitigation: Biodiversity plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change. Intact ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and coral reefs, act as vital carbon sinks, sequestering and storing carbon dioxide. Preserving and restoring biodiversity-rich areas not only protect species but also contribute to climate regulation. Nature-based solutions, such as afforestation, reforestation, and sustainable land management, harness the power of biodiversity to combat climate change.

II. Program and Policy Recommendations:

1. Integrated Approaches: To effectively address climate change and biodiversity loss, integrated policies are essential. Governments and international bodies should adopt comprehensive frameworks that explicitly consider the linkages between these two challenges. Cross-sectoral collaboration among policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders is crucial to harmonize efforts and maximize positive outcomes.
2. Strengthening Conservation Efforts: Conservation plays a pivotal role in protecting biodiversity and mitigating climate change. Governments and organizations must prioritize the preservation of intact ecosystems and prioritize the restoration of degraded habitats. This includes expanding protected areas, promoting sustainable land and ocean management practices, and implementing biodiversity-friendly agricultural methods. Funding and support for local communities engaged in conservation efforts are also paramount.
3. Promoting Sustainable Development: Sustainable development is key to addressing both climate change and biodiversity loss. Policies should prioritize renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation systems to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Ensuring sustainable livelihoods for communities dependent on natural resources fosters a balance between human needs and conservation goals.
4. Access to Climate Finance for Conservation: Access to climate finance is critical for implementing conservation and adaptation measures. International financial institutions and developed countries should increase financial support for developing nations, particularly those with high biodiversity and vulnerable ecosystems. Simplifying access procedures and providing technical assistance can facilitate the effective utilization of the climate funds such as the Global Environment Fund GEF est.1992 and the Green Climate Fund (GCF -est. Paris Agreement to help NDC implementation), the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) - est. 2001 under the UNFCCC and mandated to provide funding to the least developed countries (LDCs) to help prepare and implement National Adaptation Programs of Action (NAPAs) and the Adaptation Fund ( has had legal capacity since 2011). Noteworthy, here are national programs for financing conservation and biodiversity protection - it is imperative to get the value of biodiversity right and there is global guidance for this - tagging budgets and also important as is engaging with school and academic institutions on changing behaviors, alternative livelihoods piloting and policy advocacy

Conclusion: The intricate relationship between climate change and biodiversity necessitates urgent action. By understanding the linkages, adopting integrated approaches, strengthening conservation efforts, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring equitable access to climate finance, we can mitigate climate change and safeguard Earth's precious biodiversity. Let us collectively strive for a sustainable future where both nature and humanity thrive.

The following provides examples of the linkages between climate change and biodiversity that we are witnessing today:

·??????Coral Bleaching: ?Rising sea temperatures due to climate change have led to increased incidents of coral bleaching. When corals experience stress from high temperatures, they expel the symbiotic algae living within their tissues, causing the corals to turn white. This phenomenon not only damages coral reefs, which are biodiversity hotspots but also disrupts the intricate web of marine life dependent on these ecosystems. Example - Great Barrier Reef, Australia: The Great Barrier Reef, located off the coast of Australia, has experienced severe coral bleaching events due to rising sea temperatures. In 2016 and 2017, consecutive years of high ocean temperatures resulted in significant bleaching and mortality of corals across large sections of the reef. This event demonstrated the vulnerability of coral ecosystems to climate change and highlighted the urgent need for action to protect these vital habitats.

·??????Range Shifts and Species Displacement: As temperatures continue to rise, many species are experiencing range shifts, moving towards cooler habitats or higher altitudes. This displacement affects the delicate balance of species interactions. For instance, as warmer regions become less suitable for certain species, they may encroach upon new areas, leading to competition with native species or even the loss of local species altogether. Example: American Pika in the Sierra Nevada, USA: The American Pika, a small mammal found in alpine regions, is an example of a species experiencing range shifts due to climate change. In the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, rising temperatures have caused the pika's suitable habitat to shrink. As a result, pika populations are moving upslope to find cooler habitats, but they are eventually running out of suitable areas to inhabit. This movement disrupts the ecological balance in these alpine ecosystems.

·??????Phenological Mismatches: Climate change can cause shifts in the timing of key ecological events, such as flowering, migration, and reproduction. For example, if the timing of flower blooms changes due to warmer temperatures, pollinators that rely on specific flowering cues may suffer from a lack of food availability. This disruption can have cascading effects on entire ecosystems, impacting the reproduction and survival of various species. Example: - Cherry Blossoms in Japan: The timing of cherry blossom blooms in Japan is an iconic cultural event. However, due to warmer spring temperatures caused by climate change, cherry trees have been blooming earlier in the year. This shift has led to mismatches between the peak bloom period and the arrival of migratory bird species that rely on the blossoms for food. The disruption in this tightly synchronized relationship between the cherry trees and bird species can have cascading effects on bird populations and ecosystem dynamics.

·??????Forest Fires and Habitat Loss: Climate change increases the frequency and intensity of forest fires in many regions. These fires not only directly destroy habitats but also disrupt the intricate relationships between species. Some species may rely on specific habitats, such as tree hollows, which are crucial for nesting and shelter. When these habitats are destroyed by fires, it can lead to population declines and affect biodiversity at various trophic levels. Example: Amazon Rainforest, Brazil: The Amazon rainforest in Brazil has experienced a significant increase in forest fires in recent years, largely driven by climate change. These fires not only lead to widespread habitat destruction but also impact the incredible biodiversity found in the region. Species such as jaguars, tapirs, and countless plant and insect species face heightened risks of habitat loss and population decline, affecting the delicate balance of the world's largest tropical rainforest.

·??????Glacier Retreat and Water Availability: Glaciers serve as freshwater reserves for many communities and ecosystems. However, due to climate change, glaciers are rapidly retreating. This retreat impacts water availability downstream, affecting both human populations and biodiversity that depend on these freshwater sources. Reduced water availability can lead to habitat degradation, species decline, and potential conflicts over resources. Example: Glacier Retreat and Water Availability - Himalayan Region, Nepal: The Himalayan region, including Nepal, is home to numerous glaciers that provide a crucial source of freshwater for millions of people downstream. However, as temperatures rise due to climate change, these glaciers are rapidly retreating. This retreat has led to reduced water availability in rivers and streams, impacting both human communities and the diverse range of species that rely on these freshwater sources for survival.

These examples illustrate the tangible and interconnected impacts of climate change on biodiversity. They emphasize the urgent need for concerted efforts to address climate change and protect biodiversity through policy actions, conservation initiatives, and sustainable practices.

More examples of linkages between climate change and biodiversity that we can observe in real-time:

·??????Polar Bear Decline: Polar bears rely on sea ice as platforms for hunting seals, their primary food source. As climate change leads to the melting of Arctic sea ice, polar bears face habitat loss and reduced access to prey, resulting in population decline.

·??????Bee Decline and Crop Pollination: Bees and other pollinators play a vital role in pollinating crops and wildflowers. Climate change impacts the availability of flowering plants and alters the timing of bloom, affecting the synchrony between pollinators and plants. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can disrupt these interactions, leading to declines in bee populations and potential impacts on crop yields.

·??????Bird Migration Patterns: Climate change influences the timing and routes of bird migration. Warmer temperatures can alter the availability of food sources along migration routes, leading to changes in bird distribution and potential mismatches between food availability and migratory timing.

·??????Coral Reef Bleaching: Coral reefs are highly sensitive to changes in ocean temperature. When waters become too warm, corals expel the algae living in their tissues, resulting in coral bleaching. Bleached corals are more vulnerable to disease and can experience long-term mortality, leading to the loss of critical reef ecosystems and the biodiversity they support including the fish we eat.

·??????Shifts in Forest Composition: Climate change affects the distribution and composition of forests. As temperatures rise, certain tree species may migrate to higher altitudes or cooler regions, while others may become stressed or more susceptible to pests and diseases. These shifts can alter forest ecosystems and impact the species that rely on specific tree species for habitat and resources.

·??????Changing Phenology of Plants and Insects: Climate change can disrupt the timing of plant flowering and insect emergence. For example, warmer temperatures can cause plants to flower earlier in the year, but if the emergence of pollinators does not align with these changes, it can disrupt the pollination process and impact plant reproduction.

These examples highlight the ongoing and dynamic relationship between climate change and biodiversity. They demonstrate the interconnectedness and vulnerabilities of various species and ecosystems, underscoring the importance of addressing climate change to protect biodiversity and ensure the functioning of ecosystems.