About this Event

The 2026 edition of the International Day for Biological Diversity – celebrated every year on 22 May – will focus on “Acting locally for global impact”. In the lead-up to the UN Biodiversity Conference, held under the theme of “Taking Action for Nature”, this year’s IDB campaign will help connect local initiatives with the 23 global targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), focusing the world’s attention on the importance of applying the whole-of-society approach adopted within the Framework.

To mark the day, the Geneva Environment Network and its partners are organizing the traditional Geneva celebration to showcase the role of Geneva in leveraging local and global action for nature.

Leading experts from key Geneva-based UN institutions and processes speaking at the Geneva Celebration of International Biodiversity Day will update on preparations for this major milestone. They will also reflect on the need for inclusive, participatory and impactful whole-of-society action for nature, including through local mobilization for the implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs). The event will also offer a forward-looking perspective on the priorities, vision and expected outcomes of the Conference, including through a dedicated high-level intervention by the incoming Presidency of COP17, outlining ongoing preparatory efforts and key directions toward Yerevan.

The celebration will feature Lightning Talks—dynamic five‑minute presentations in the PechaKucha format—where experts from various Geneva-based institutions will showcase how they are leveraging local and global action for nature.

The event will be preceded by a light breakfast and networking opportunity.

More information: tiny.cc/GENBiodiversityDay26