The Convention is the first global comprehensive agreement to address all aspects of biological diversity: genetic resources, species and ecosystems. It recognizes -- for the first time – that the conservation of biological diversity is a common concern of humankind and an integral part of the development process. To achieve its objectives, the Convention – promotes a renewed partnership among countries. Its provisions on scientific and technical co-operation, access to genetic resources, and the transfer of environmentally sound technologies form the foundation of this partnership.

This diversity is often understood in terms of the wide variety of plants, animals and microorganisms. So far, about 1.75 million species have been identified, mostly small creatures such as insects. Scientists reckon that there are actually about 13 million species, though estimates range from 3 to 100 million.

When did the Convention come into force?

The convention was opened for signature on 5 June 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (the Rio Earth Summit). It remained open for signature until 4 June 1993, by which time it had received 168 signatures. The convention entered into force on 29 December 1993, which was 90 days after the thirtieth ratification.

What are the objectives of the Convention?

The Convention has three main goals:2

• The conservation of biodiversity,
• Sustainable use of the components of biodiversity, and
• Sharing the benefits arising from the commercial and other utilization of genetic resources in a fair and equitable way

What is a COP?

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is the key decision-making body responsible for monitoring the implementation of the Convention. Its key function is to keep review the implementation of the convention and to streer its development. Parties are required to submit reports on measures taken for the implementation of the Convention and their effectiveness in meeting the objectives of the Convention. The COP meets every two years to review progress in the implementation of the Convention and to decide on work programmes to achieve its objectives. At COP, Parties are represented by officials from the environment ministry, forest ministry, and foreign affairs ministry.

What is a SBSTTA?

The Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA) provides the COP with advice and recommendations on Scientific , technical and technological aspects of the implementation of the convention, including the status of biological diversity and the effectiveness of measures taken to give effect to the Convention. It has also a major role in identifying technologies for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity suitable to transfer to developing countries. All Parties are free to nominate individuals and government officials with experience in relevant fields as SBSTTA delegates.

Whats are the Parties

Parties to the Convention are the governments that have ratified the Convention. As of April 2002, 182 countries including the European Community have ratified the Convention with the notable exception of the United States, Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia, among others.

What is a Secretariat?

The CBD has also created a Secretariat established under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to assist the Conference of the Parties in its work and to perform day-to-day administrative functions. It is located in Montreal, Canada. Its main functions are to arrange and service meetings of COP and SBSTTA, assist in the implementation of the programme of work and co-ordinate activities among Parties and other international organisations