The Convention on Biological Diversity’s Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) sets out four global goals by 2050 and 23 global targets by 2030 to reverse the decline of biodiversity. In recognition of the need for global action and to address domestic challenges, Australia is a signatory to the GBF.
Target 3 of the GBF focuses governments on protecting at least 30 per cent of the planet’s terrestrial and inland waters and marine and coastal areas by 2030. This has become widely known as the 30×30 commitment. However, Target 3 is far more than a quantitative (at least 30 per cent) and time bound (2030) target and should be used as a blueprint for what should be protected as well as the approaches for protection that should be utilised.
In Australia, this target needs to be a central pillar of our national efforts to address biodiversity loss and habitat degradation.
The target will also enhance efforts to manage land as a significant carbon sink in support of global climate action under the Paris Agreement. Our unique flora and fauna face ongoing and increasing threats from land clearing, invasive species, overexploitation, inappropriate fire management, water extraction, disease, and climate change. By committing to this target, Australia is aligned with global biodiversity goals and has an opportunity to address our national biodiversity challenges whilst making an enduring contribution to a sustainable and interconnected natural world. The commitment also builds on Australia’s long-standing science-based policies and programs to develop a comprehensive, adequate and representative system of protected areas.
Target 3 of the GBF
Ensure and enable that by 2030 at least 30 per cent of terrestrial and inland water areas, and of marine and coastal areas, especially areas of particular importance for biodiversity and ecosystem functions and services, are effectively conserved and managed through ecologically representative, well-connected and equitably governed systems of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures, recognising indigenous and traditional territories, where applicable, and integrated into wider landscapes, seascapes and the ocean, while ensuring that any sustainable use, where appropriate in such areas, is fully consistent with conservation outcomes, recognising and respecting the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities, including over their traditional territories.