BSAPP in the International Context
Biological diversity (biodiversity for short) is defined as the variety and genetic variability of all species of plants, animals and micro-organisms and the ecosystems that form their habitats. It is the outcome of over 3,000 million years of evolution and the foundation for the directions it will take in the future. Ecological stability is guaranteed mainly through biological diversity. In essence, it is the insurance policy for life on earth (Agenda 21).
A society concerned about biodiversity in its sea and land territories needs to deal with who should have access to natural resources and who should benefit from them. This links biodiversity to the larger issue of sustainable development. In recognition of the importance of biodiversity, during the 1992 UNCED Conference (the Rio Earth Summit) a Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was open for signature. One year later, a hundred and sixty eight countries had signed, making the CBD one of the most widespread conventions in existence.
By joining together the CBD nations commit themselves to its goals; namely, (i) the conservation of biodiversity; (ii) the sustainable use of biodiversity resources, and (iii) the equitable sharing of benefits arising from biodiversity. Moreover, signatory nations agree to elaborate a National Strategy and Action Plan to operationalise the goals of the CBD in accordance with its Articles 6 and 26 (see Annex II), as well as to implement all if its other articles.
Several other international environmental conventions are related to the goals of the CBD. Thus, actions related to CBD should be consistent with these other international conventions.
As Palestine approaches statehood, it takes its responsibilities for the conservation and sustainable development of its natural resources seriously. The Palestinian National Authority recognises that the conservation of the diversity and abundance of its biological resources depend on the well being of its present and future communities. It has therefore seized the opportunity to take the first step in defining a Palestinian national strategy in keeping with the provisions of the Convention.