COP15, the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), is the first global conference convened by the United Nations on the theme of ecological civilization. The conference, themed “Ecological Civilization: China’s Efforts to Build a Shared Future for All Life on Earth”, aims to advocate for global ecological civilization construction, emphasizing that humanity and nature are part of a shared community of life. It stresses the importance of respecting, accommodating, and protecting nature, striving to achieve the Convention’s goal of sustainable use and benefit-sharing of biodiversity by 2050, and realizing the vision of “harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature”. The School of Global Governance of Renmin University of China held a study session to understand international environmental negotiations and promote Chinese youth’s global contributions.

Wang Yin, Doctoral student in Philosophy of Science and Technology, School of Philosophy, Class of 2021

Wang, from a professional standpoint, provided a philosophical reflection on biodiversity. He first emphasized the profound impact of humanity’s relationship with nature on human character and the pursuit of a fulfilling life, highlighting the importance of biodiversity. He then discussed the academic community’s research on biodiversity, ranging from empirical studies to ethical considerations. He argued that humans have a moral duty to preserve ecological diversity to ensure their own survival. Lastly, Wang stressed the importance of cherishing and protecting ecological diversity, suggesting that this reflects humanity’s emotional connection with nature. Drawing on Fei Xiaotong’s ideas, he proposed that mutual respect for diverse cultures and values can lead to a harmonious world.

Zhang Jing, Master’s student in Higher Education, School of Education, Class of 2021

Zhang used two terms from anthropology to explain the importance of biodiversity. The first term is animism, suggesting that humans should learn from ancient wisdom to live in harmony with nature, respecting all life forms and their habitats. The second term is the Anthropocene, reflecting on evolution. Despite dinosaurs’ long reign, they became extinct. Zhang believes that preserving biodiversity can help prevent human extinction.

Meng Lingchu, undergraduate student majoring in French, School of Foreign Languages, Class of 2020

Meng highlighted the role of developing nations in global ecological protection. She stated that China not only shares its environmental governance experience but also learns from others. She emphasized the challenge of holding developed nations accountable, noting their tendency to demand emissions reductions from developing nations while making fewer commitments or acting on them. Meng stressed the urgent need for environmental protection for human development, noting that human destruction of the environment harms themselves. She emphasized the importance of protecting the Earth, which ultimately protects humanity.

Mao Yuyueze, undergraduate student majoring in English, School of Foreign Languages, Class of 2021

Mao highlighted exemplary cases of biodiversity. Inspired by COP15, in 2022, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment initiated the selection of outstanding biodiversity cases, choosing examples with national significance. As a native of Fujian, Mao focused on a case from the Minjiang Estuary Wetland, which offered new insights into biodiversity protection. This case emphasized the importance of ecosystem restoration, long-term protection planning, and integrating economic value with local characteristics to achieve both ecological protection and economic development goals.

Cui Yanrong, doctoral student in Agricultural Economics and Management, School of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Class of 2020

Cui highlighted the importance of biodiversity, noting that healthy ecosystems provide essential resources and mitigate human impact on the environment. Urgent action is needed to protect biodiversity, as it has been overlooked in the past. Challenges include the complexity of ecosystems and the lack of clear rules for protection. However, there is optimism, with proposals like protecting 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030 gaining popularity. Cui emphasized the need for government commitments and public attention to drive progress, remaining optimistic about the future of biodiversity protection.

Through this study session, everyone has gained a further understanding of COP15 and a deeper understanding of the importance of ecological protection. The study session ended successfully!