With global biodiversity targets off track, regional governments are stepping up to close the gap between ambition and delivery — and calling for the recognition and resources needed to go further.

As Biodiversity COP17 concluded in Yerevan, Armenia (19–30 October 2026), Regions4 members and members of the High Ambition Coalition (HAC) Subnational Government Task Force participating in the conference issued a joint statement sending a collective message: achieving global biodiversity goals requires recognising and empowering the governments turning international commitments into action on the ground.

Throughout COP17, subnational governments demonstrated their leadership in protecting lands and waters, restoring ecosystems and working alongside Indigenous Peoples and local communities to advance solutions that benefit both people and nature.

Turning ambition into action: what is needed to go further

The joint statement calls on Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity to:

• Recognise subnational governments as essential implementation partners, ensuring their contributions are reflected in national biodiversity planning, implementation and reporting.
• Strengthen cooperation across levels of government, establishing more effective mechanisms for dialogue and coordination with subnational governments.
• Match responsibilities with resources, providing adequate and accessible finance and technical support to accelerate biodiversity action.

The statement also highlights the commitment of participating governments to strengthening international partnerships, sharing practical experience and replicating successful approaches to advance biodiversity conservation and restoration.

From Biodiversity COP17 to Climate COP31: advancing action for nature and climate

As attention turns to Climate COP31 in Antalya (9–20 November 2026), the statement underlines the importance of advancing biodiversity and climate action together.

From nature-based solutions and ecosystem restoration to climate resilience, regional governments are already connecting these agendas through practical action on the ground, reinforcing the links between biodiversity protection, climate adaptation and sustainable development.

Their message is clear: regional governments are not waiting for permission to take bold action for nature. They remain committed to working together, sharing solutions and accelerating progress towards global biodiversity goals, so that people and nature can thrive together for generations to come.

Read the full joint statement: