The 17th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) will take place from 19–30 October 2026 in Yerevan, Armenia, bringing together representatives from countries and sectors around the world to advance solutions for biodiversity conservation, exchange knowledge and best practices, and strengthen collective action.

The conference comes at a defining moment for the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). For the first time since its adoption in 2022, countries will collectively review progress towards the Framework’s 23 targets, marking an important shift from commitments to evidence, and from what was agreed to what has been achieved.

COP 17 will provide an important platform for sharing practical approaches, innovative solutions and experiences that can contribute to the implementation of the KMGBF.

SpongeBoost will be represented at the conference through promotional materials and policy briefs available at the joint stand of CO-OP4CBD, BioAgora, RESPIN, Biodiversa+ and NetworkNature. The stand will provide an opportunity for COP 17 participants to learn more about SpongeBoost, its work, and its contribution to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem-based approaches.

The presence at COP 17 will also create opportunities to connect with policymakers, researchers, practitioners and other stakeholders working to translate global biodiversity commitments into action on the ground.