Beccy Speight chief executive of the RSPB said: “Today’s announcement is hugely important. Every world leader signing the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forests and Land Use recognises that this is a nature and climate emergency, and that only through halting and reversing the loss of forests can 1.5 stay within reach. The destruction of our forests is having a devastating impact on our wildlife and nature’s ability to keep carbon locked up. And, this in turn is linked to the products on our shelves that have seen forests around the world cleared for palm oil, livestock, soy and cocoa. The Forest Agriculture Commodities and Trade (FACT) Statement announced today is the first time that producer and consumer countries have come together on this issue, and is an important step towards halting and reversing forest loss. Beyond ending deforestation this new commitment is bringing countries and the private sector together through major new financial commitments to mark the start of a truly global response that will be needed to protect and restore our wild places. Many of the birds that we enjoy in the summer will be returning to the forests of Africa at this moment, protecting these birds in both of their homes is vital. The Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration is an important milestone towards the much-needed level of ambition and cooperation needed to revive our world. But the real strength of this agreement will be after COP26 when countries deliver the action needed to make these commitments a reality. The Environment Bill currently at Westminster will be an important indicator for this.”
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Posted On: 02/11/2021