Parks Australia has joined forces with over 30 other protected area agencies across the world to sign a joint statement on climate change and biodiversity loss.

The joint statement, launched as part of the United Nations Framework Convention of Climate Change COP26, Glasgow, describes the role of protected areas in addressing the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, including their role in climate change mitigation and adaptation, in protecting biodiversity and inspiring visitors to enact change.

It says that protected areas form a global family and have a unique and powerful place in our landscapes, seascapes, and societies across the planet and are intimate spaces that are both culturally and personally significant for connecting with nature.

The Director of National Parks recognises the threat faced to Australia’s Commonwealth National Parks and Gardens from climate change and biodiversity loss and is committed to working with Traditional Owners and other local Australian and international partners on this important issue.

The joint statement on climate change is available here.