The UN Convention on Biodiversity Conference, UN CBD, known informally
as the "Biodiversity Convention", is a multilateral treaty with three
main goals: the conservation of biological diversity (or
biodiversity); the sustainable use of its components; and the fair and
equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. Its
objective is to develop national strategies for the conservation and
sustainable use of biological diversity, and it is often seen as the
key document regarding sustainable development.
The Convention's governing body is the Conference of the Parties
(COP), consisting of all governments (and regional economic
integration organizations) that have ratified the treaty. This
ultimate authority reviews progress under the Convention, identifies
new priorities, and sets work plans for members.
CBD Secretariat, based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Esteban Rivera, 5 May 2025