50 countries commit to protect 30% of land, sea over decade

PARIS (AP) — A coalition of at least 50 countries have committed to protect 30% of the planet, including land and sea, over the decade in efforts to halt species extinction and address climate change issues, during a global summit aimed at protecting the world’s biodiversity. About 30 leaders and top officials were participating in the One Planet Summit on Monday, which was being held by videoconference due to the coronavirus pandemic. The one-day summit focus on four major topics: protecting land and marine ecosystems; promoting a more sustainable way to grow food; increasing funding to protect biodiversity; and identifying links between deforestation and the health of humans and animals. Organizers hope to merge the fight against climate change with the preservation of biodiversity.