Webinar related to genetic diversity and the post 2020 Global Biodiversity Framework

Towards CBD COP15, the G-BiKE COST Action and the Coalition for Conservation Genetics, co-hosted by GEO BON and the CBD Secretariat, are organizing for policy makers and biodiversity reporters, specifically those attending or supporting teams in the next COP-15 in Montreal, a webinar related to genetic diversity and the post 2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. Genetic diversity is a vital component of biodiversity to ensure the resilience of species, ecosystems, and society. This webinar will show how it is possible to measure and report on genetic diversity with feasible and affordable indicators, which do not need genetic (DNA) data, and which use available data and knowledge within countries on population abundance and distribution. The webinar will be held twice November 14 (14h00 UTC) and November 16 (22h00 UTC) , via Zoom, to accommodate different time zones. It will be held in English with translators available to answer questions in Spanish, French and Portuguese.

We are pleased to inform Parties and observers of a webinar related to genetic diversity and the post 2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. Genetic diversity is a vital component of biodiversity to ensure the resilience of species, ecosystems, and society. This webinar, specifically tailored to policy makers and biodiversity reporters, particularly those attending or supporting teams in the next COP-15 in Montreal, will show how it is possible to measure and report on genetic diversity with feasible and affordable indicators, which do not need genetic (DNA) data, and which use available data and knowledge within countries on population abundance and distribution. Specifically, this webinar aims to:

Share knowledge on the vital importance of genetic diversity,
Explain the relevance, feasibility and scientific basis of indicator A.0.4 (effective population size 500), indicator A.8.1. (distinct populations maintained), and other indicators, and their connection to Goal A and Target 4.,
Explain how to measure indicators in an affordable, feasible, and non-technical way with moderate time and resources,
Provide updates from partners using genetic diversity indicators in nine countries: Australia, Belgium, Colombia, France, Japan, Mexico, Sweden, South Africa, USA,
Allow significant time for questions and discussion from participants. Webinar participants are invited to make suggestions for further development and refinement,
Describe support materials, future developments and capacity building opportunities.

The webinar is organized by the Coalition for Conservation Genetics, G-BIKE, GEO BON, and the CBD Secretariat with the aim of improving capacity to conserve genetic diversity. The webinar will be held twice, via Zoom, to accommodate different time zones. It will be held in English with translators available to answer questions in Spanish, French and Portuguese. We encourage you to register as soon as possible for one of the following sessions:

Americas/ Europe/ Africa/ Middle East: Monday November 14 at this time (14h00 UTC) https://mcgill.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYuc-uprjotH9eaavPNfGfFFxwxsRlwuIec

Asia/ Americas: Wednesday November 16 at this time (22h00 UTC) https://mcgill.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMvdu6urDwuHtzA-TQzyGVu5TNDRloUoxi2

The agenda and relevant materials will be shared with all registered participants in advance of the webinar.