ABSTRACT
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) (1992) builds on a threefold, interacting objective: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources (see Conservation and preservation). The CBD is comprehensive in scope, as biodiversity is defined as species and ecosystems worldwide, as well as the genetic diversity within species. The CBD has nearly universal ratification, with the notable exception of the US. It is governed by a conference of the parties and supported by a secretariat and a Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical, and Technological Advice. Since 2010, biodiversity related treaties are being sought that are bolstered with stronger scientific pull through the Intergovernmental Panel on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services which works as a boundary organization. The CBD parties are obliged to develop national biodiversity strategies, integrate biodiversity conservation in all sectors, and establish systems of protected areas. The CBD is equipped with a monitoring mechanism-national reporting and an incentive mechanism-the Global Environment Facility.
