The proposed post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) outlines an ambitious global plan to bring about transformative change in our relationship with nature. Its 24 targets aim to put biodiversity on a path to recovery by 2030 and to achieve harmony with nature by 2050. Every dollar invested in restoration creates up to double dollars in economic benefits. Spatial data and tools can provide critical support across many other GBF targets by indicating where to take action. But many countries do not have a strong track record of using spatial data for biodiversity decision-making.
Lower and middle-income countries used an average of five maps in their Fifth National Reports on biodiversity to the CBD and four maps in National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs). The Integrated Spatial Planning Workbook, also launched at COP15, provides a guide for decision-makers to overcome many of the gaps described in Nature is Counting on Us. The workbook condenses insights from more than two years of work across 11 pilot countries with the Essential Life Support Areas (ELSA) methodology to support the uptake of spatial planning around the globe.
