The 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the UN’s Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was held in Montreal, Canada from December 7 to December 19, 2022. The conference set the major milestone of adopting the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which includes the 30×30 Target, as a new set of global targets to be achieved by 2030 following the Aichi Targets as a step forward in biodiversity conservation promotion.

1. Participation in the 7th Summit for Subnational Governments & Cities for Biodiversity

 Governor Hideaki Ohmura of Aichi Prefecture delivered a video message on behalf of GoLS at the 7th Summit for Subnational Governments & Cities for biodiversity—a meeting held jointly with COP15—during a session themed on “Impact”. It was attended by approximately 300 people from member nations, local governments, international authorities, and other such bodies. In the message, he announced that GoLS would continue to cooperate with members and related international authorities, making use of international platforms as a launching point to take the initiative in action resulting in the completion of new global targets.

2. GoLS meeting

 Keeping with customs during the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, GoLS has continued its activities online. This time however, an in-person meeting was held for the first time in four years. Members developed a statement toward achievement of new global targets and shared their determination to continue strengthening cooperation.

3. Dissemination of local governments’ initiatives and idea exchange with other municipalities

 At the RegionsWithNature side event and other forums, GoLS members showcased the initiatives of subnational governments. For example, Aichi Prefecture introduced such efforts as the Aichi Biodiversity Corporate Certification Program established in April 2022, support for youth activities fostering next generation leaders, and the activities of the Ecological Network Council.
GoLS members made use of various occasions during the meeting, exchanging opinions on how subnational governments should be involved under a new expansive framework.