Logo of 11th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties Released

Bonn, 29 July 2014 - Four months prior to the 11th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP11), the Secretariat of the Convention on Migratory Species (UNEP/CMS) presents the logo of this UN wildlife conference, which will take place in Quito, Ecuador, from 4 to 9 November 2015. The logo includes a range of species covered by the Convention by depicting avian, marine and terrestrial migratory animals. It also features the national colours of Ecuador, the host country of COP11.

Governments, UN organizations, IGOs, NGOs and conservationists will meet in Quito to set the course to protect migratory species across the globe. "Time for Action!" is the motto of COP11. The United Nations 2010 biodiversity target to halt biodiversity loss could only be met for a very few species. Following years of environmental negotiations, it is now time to implement the policies agreed and promote action on the ground. CMS COP11 is a key event in the UN wildlife calendar in 2014.

Member States have proposed the Polar Bear, African Lion and Hammerhead Sharks along with other endangered species to be added to the Convention’s Appendices for protection. Major threats to the migration of animals and their survival will be addressed. Climate change modifies traditional habitats making them unsuitable for resting, breeding and feeding, so adaptation strategies are required. Illegal killing, trapping and poisoning of migratory birds put the survival of viable populations at risk. Expanding infrastructure such as roads, rails, fences and wind farms are often insurmountable barriers to migration. Wildlife-friendly solutions are needed here. Marine debris has emerged as a global danger to whales and dolphins, sea turtles, seabirds and fish. Specific Action Plans for Argali Sheep, Pacific Loggerhead Turtles and the endangered Saker Falcon have been elaborated to be adopted at the conference.

It is the first time that a CMS COP is being convened in Latin America. The Convention values the importance of the region for biodiversity. Along with six other Latin American countries, Ecuador, the venue, is in the top 20 most megadiverse areas of the world.

For the first time a High Level Segment will be held (on 3 November) for which several Ministers and VIPs have been invited from all regions of the world.

In 2014, Quito, Ecuador, will be a key destination for those interested in the conservation of migratory species across the world. Contracting Parties, CMS Partners and journalists are welcome to use the COP11 logo in electronic and printed form in the context of the preparations for the Conference of the Parties.

Last updated on 30 July 2014

Type: 
News
Country: 
Ecuador
Region: 
South & Central America & The Caribbean
Threats: 
Climate Change
Infrastructure and service corridors
Illegal trade
Overharvesting
Unsustainable hunting and trapping
Species: 
Caretta caretta
Falco cherrug
Ovis ammon