Algiers – Minister of Environment and Quality of Life, Nagiba Djilali, called on economic institutions to invest in biodiversity conservation, emphasizing that such investments are essential for protecting productive resources and ensuring the long-term sustainability of economic activities.
Speaking at an informational and awareness workshop in Algiers on Thursday, Djilali addressed representatives of national and international companies, stressing that investing in biodiversity should not be viewed as an additional cost but rather as a sustainable investment that enhances economic competitiveness in global markets increasingly demanding environmentally friendly products.
“We believe that companies investing in biodiversity conservation will not only safeguard their resources but also strengthen their competitiveness in both local and international markets,” she stated.
She also highlighted that public-private partnerships are crucial for the success of Algeria’s national biodiversity conservation efforts.
Corporate Responsibility in Biodiversity Conservation
The minister urged companies to actively participate in implementing the National Biodiversity Strategy, recognizing that businesses have a direct and indirect impact on biodiversity and ecosystems. She emphasized that both the public and private sectors must engage in achieving the strategy’s goals, as businesses depend on ecosystem services for their operations.
Djilali reaffirmed Algeria’s commitment to environmental sustainability, citing the country’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan for 2025-2030, which aligns with global biodiversity objectives. She noted that this strategy was developed through a participatory and inclusive approach, involving various sectors and civil society, with opportunities for public input via the official Ministry of Environment’s online portal.
“This strategy not only reinforces Algeria’s dedication to biodiversity conservation but also underscores the importance of collective action and cooperation among all stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation,” she added.
UNDP Representative Supports Algeria’s Efforts
Natasha Van Rijn, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Algeria, praised the workshop as a valuable platform for enhancing dialogue and awareness on the country’s biodiversity strategy. She stressed that this initiative aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted by the United Nations in 2022, which outlines a global roadmap for addressing biodiversity threats.
Van Rijn emphasized that the primary goal of the workshop was to develop a comprehensive plan for biodiversity protection and enhancement in Algeria while ensuring alignment with international biodiversity targets.
Urgent Action Needed to Address Biodiversity Loss
During the discussions, experts sounded the alarm over the unprecedented loss of biodiversity worldwide, noting that over the past 50 years, ecosystem degradation and species extinction rates have surged to nearly 1,000 times the natural rate. This alarming trend calls for immediate and collective action to tackle environmental challenges.
The workshop brought together directors general, representatives of public and private companies, and officials from various ministries, who discussed mechanisms for corporate involvement in biodiversity conservation. The participants also agreed on establishing a shared framework to ensure long-term corporate engagement in protecting Algeria’s natural resources.
Author: Nor-Eleslam
