CGIAR at UNCCD COP 16: Advancing science, partnerships, and global solutions for environmental health and biodiversity

I was honoured to represent the CGIAR Impact Platform on Environmental Health and Biodiversity in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We spent nearly two weeks at the 16th United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification Conference of the Parties (UNCCD COP16).

Our presence as CGIAR centres focused on three goals: following negotiations and engaging with parties, showcasing our impactful science to inform discussions, and building strategic partnerships to advance CGIAR’s next portfolio and influence the 3 Rio Conventions. I am proud to say we achieved all three.

With 11 CGIAR centres and 150 CGIAR scientists present and more than 300 additional experts supporting remotely, we showcased science that can substantively inform global decisions. We hosted 37 events at the CGIAR Food and Agriculture Pavilion and contributed to more than 200 other events, which strengthened our visibility and impact. CGIAR’s work was widely recognized, with negotiators consulting our scientists to apply our research findings.

At COP16, CGIAR actively contributed to critical discussions on two emerging issues: innovation and technology in Sustainable Agrifood Systems and the sustainable management of grasslands and rangelands.

In the Committee on Science and Technology (CST), CGIAR welcomed the inclusion of innovation and technology in Sustainable Agrifood Systems as a key policy area, recognizing their importance in enhancing the implementation of the Convention. CGIAR highlighted its contributions, including breeding climate-resilient crops and livestock, developing water-efficient irrigation systems, promoting soil conservation, wastewater reuse models, and advancing digital tools to empower farmers through climate risk advisories, good agricultural practices, and market information.

During the Committee of the Whole (COW) plenary, CGIAR emphasized the significance of grasslands and rangelands. These critical biomes support biodiversity, food security, and livelihoods for billions yet remain underfunded. CGIAR and its partners have developed openly accessible innovations, including participatory rangeland management, sustainable land-use toolkits, low-emissions forages, and One Health approaches for pastoral areas. As the world prepares for the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists in 2026, CGIAR encourages Parties to adopt and adapt these solutions to local needs.

CGIAR expressed its commitment to working with governments, international organizations, and local communities to scale solutions, strengthen resilience, and drive meaningful implementation of the Convention.

Our engagement extends beyond these events; it’s an ongoing effort to update parties with relevant scientific insights.

This was also a valuable moment to actively listen to the needs and knowledge gaps expressed by the parties. This ongoing dialogue helps us tailor our research to support the development of effective global recommendations grounded in high-quality science.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to CGIAR staff, partners, and allies for their invaluable support and collaboration. To our colleagues in Riyadh and around the world, thank you for showcasing CGIAR’s work and helping make this COP a success. Seeing our scientific evidence in action brings us great pride and reminds us of the impact we’re achieving together.

Word from Cargele Masso, Director, CGIAR’s Environmental Health and Biodiversity Platform