Convention on Biological Diversity (Rio Convention)

Signed in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro by a large number of nations, the Convention on Biological Diversity entered into force in December 1993.

The convention is aimed at protecting the world's natural assets by introducing the term "biodiversity." It is a complex concept not only relevant in scientific terms, but also taking into consideration social and economic dimensions. All life on Earth is part of an immense, interdependent system, and biodiversity is an expression of the necessary variety of ecosystems, species and genes.

The parties of the Convention have pledged to develop and integrate their national strategies and plans for ex situ and in situ biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, monitor them, establish incentive measures for biodiversity conservation, employ an environmental impact assessment system and assure equal access to genetic resources and technology.

The Convention commits parties to preparing national strategies for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity. The term has gained international political recognition and is now used by governments, the media and society at large.

<www.biodiv.org>