Policy Brief (D3.5 Biodiversity interdependencies of SDGs)

Biodiversity Interdependencies of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Local experiences across Europe show biodiversity is key in achieving all SDGs.

Recommendations for Policy

1. Tailor SDG implementation strategies to loca lcontexts and acknowledge that the interpretation and relevance of SDGs vary. Promote SDGs’ flexibility and alignment with local needs and priorities.
2. Recognize and integrate the role of non-human entities as key beneficiaries to promote holistic and sustainable outcomes of SDGs. Encourage policies that prioritize ecosystems alongside human development, without prioritizing the latter.
3. Look for inclusive ways to define ecosystem services. Promote a focus within the SDGs on the empowerment of marginalized communities.
4. Promote policies that recognize the interdependence between biodiversity recovery and non-biodiversity-related SDGs. Focus on reducing inequalities and fostering relationships between human activities and ecosystems.
5. Develop publicly accessible guidelines and practical tools to translate SDGs into tangible, actionable steps tailored to local contexts and marginalized communities.  Reconceptualize the SDG framework by transparently addressing its colonial and capitalist roots and limitations (e.g. growth-centric and Global North-centric focus and
neglect of underrepresented populations). Ensure that intersectionalities, such as gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status are considered to address overlapping challenges and barriers. Incorporate measures to make biodiversityrelevant SDGs relatable to enhance public understanding and engagement.balanced