Guyana to host second Global Biodiversity Alliance Conference, Financing Forum

Guyana is set to host more than 140 representatives from governments, communities and organisations for the Second Global Biodiversity Alliance (GBA) Conference and Financing Forum, as the country continues to push for greater investment in protecting nature and advancing sustainable development.

The two-day event will be held on October 30 and 31 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre in Georgetown under the theme, “Investing in Nature: From Global Commitments to Practical Action.”

The conference forms part of Guyana Nature and Biodiversity Finance Week and will bring together political leaders, financial institutions, investors, scientists, Indigenous Peoples and local communities to examine how global biodiversity commitments can be translated into practical action.

A major focus will be mobilising public and private financing for biodiversity protection, while ensuring that conservation efforts also support livelihoods and economic development.

Discussions will explore financing mechanisms including blended finance, green and biodiversity bonds, carbon and biodiversity markets, and funding through multilateral institutions.

The conference follows the inaugural Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit, which Guyana hosted from July 23 to 25, 2025.

The second gathering is expected to build on that foundation by strengthening international cooperation and examining how biodiversity-rich countries can develop and finance conservation initiatives that can be implemented and scaled.

The programme will also highlight Indigenous and community stewardship, youth innovation and scientific monitoring, while reviewing progress in expanding biodiversity conservation areas and strengthening the Alliance’s institutions.

The opening day is expected to feature a leaders’ plenary, discussions on biodiversity finance and sessions examining the role of young people and women in conservation.

An exhibition and opportunities for partnership-building will also form part of the programme.

The second day will focus on the Financing Forum, with attention on investment mechanisms and the public policies needed to support them, alongside regional discussions and practical financing sessions.

The meeting is expected to conclude with a review of key findings, agreements reached and next steps for participants.

With more than 140 members expected to participate, the Second GBA Conference and Financing Forum is positioned to advance the global biodiversity conversation from commitments towards investment, implementation and measurable action. [DPI]