From Cali to Belem: Intersections between biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation
Conserving and restoring terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems is essential for meeting the goals of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Ecosystems are vital for the global carbon cycle and provide essential services for human well-being and the Sustainable Development Goals. The upcoming panel discussion, hosted by Penn’s Environmental Innovations Initiative and Center for Latin American and Latinx Studies, will explore evidence-based actions that reduce climate change risks and vulnerabilities.

Conserving terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems, as well as restoring degraded ecosystems, including their genetic and species diversity, is crucial for achieving the goals of both the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Ecosystems play a vital role in the global carbon cycle and in adapting to climate change, while also providing a wide range of ecosystem services essential for human well-being and the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals.
However, what evidence do we have to support decisions about climate change adaptation? What responses actually reduce risk, exposure, and vulnerability to climate change? Who is taking action in this regard?
In the year of Latin American COPs, Penn’s Environmental Innovations Initiative and Center for Latin American and Latinx Studies are excited to collaborate in highlighting research at the intersection of climate change and biodiversity conservation. Join us for a panel discussion addressing the question: What actions are leveraging the power of nature to adapt to climate change and work toward a sustainable future?
Moderator:
- Fernanda Jimenez, Visiting Scholar, CLALS
Speakers:
- Carolina Angel Botero, Post-doctoral Fellow 2023-2025, CLALS
- Scott Moore, Director of China Programs and Strategic Initiatives, Penn Global
- Leandro Pongeluppe, assistant professor of management, Wharton

