Experts Gather in Davos to Tackle Global Biodiversity Crisis
More than 1,000 experts from over 70 countries will meet in Davos, Switzerland, from June 14 to 19 for the World Biodiversity Forum 2026, focusing on urgent solutions to global biodiversity loss and species extinction.
The event brings together scientists, policymakers, businesses, and civil society representatives to move beyond discussion and toward concrete action.
From Targets to Implementation
Although the international community agreed on ambitious biodiversity goals under the 2022 Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, experts say progress remains insufficient.
Gabriela Schaepman-Strub, professor of Earth system science at the University of Zurich and chair of the forum, stressed that global efforts are still not on track to meet the 2030 biodiversity targets.
She emphasized that while international discussions have intensified, implementation at national and global levels continues to lag behind expectations.
Biodiversity Under Pressure in Switzerland
The situation is also critical within Switzerland. According to Lukas Berger of the Swiss Academy of Sciences (SCNAT), biodiversity in the country remains under severe pressure.
While the rate of decline has slowed since the early 2000s and some improvements have been observed, around one-third of species in Switzerland remain at risk.
Experts highlight that the main challenge is not the absence of laws or strategies, but weak implementation and enforcement of existing environmental policies.
Conflicting Policies and Global Impact
Researchers also point to contradictory incentives that affect biodiversity protection. While funding exists to support conservation, significantly larger subsidies continue to support activities that harm ecosystems.
Experts further stress that Switzerland has a global responsibility, as biodiversity loss is also driven by international supply chains and overseas investments linked to Swiss industries.
Science, Business, and Policy Collaboration
Unlike formal United Nations negotiations, the World Biodiversity Forum serves as a platform for collaboration between science, business, politics, and civil society.
The goal is to develop innovative, practical solutions rather than formal agreements between states.
Participants are expected to adopt a resolution calling for a shift from policy declarations to real-world implementation.
Biodiversity as the Foundation of Life
Experts at the forum emphasize that biodiversity is essential for human survival, supporting clean water, fertile soil, pollination, and ecosystem stability.
They argue that protecting nature should not be seen as optional but as fundamental to human health and well-being.
As Lukas Berger noted, biodiversity is “our lifeblood,” and successful conservation efforts can already be seen in restored habitats and improved ecosystems where action has been taken.