During which event was the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) first…
2024
During which event was the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) first opened for signature?
Answer: B. Earth Summit — ConceptOpening for signature is a treaty-making milestone: it is the stage at which states are first invited to sign an agreed treaty text. It is distinct…
- A.
United Nations Conference on the Human Environment
- B.
Earth Summit
- C.
Montreal Protocol
- D.
First meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 1)
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Concept
Opening for signature is a treaty-making milestone: it is the stage at which states are first invited to sign an agreed treaty text.
It is distinct from adoption of the text, entry into force after ratification, and later meetings of the treaty’s governing body.
Application
The Convention on Biological Diversity was opened for signature on 5 June 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, commonly called the Earth Summit.
Contrast
The United Nations Conference on the Human Environment was held in Stockholm in 1972, two decades before the CBD signature event.
The Montreal Protocol was adopted in 1987 and addresses substances that deplete the ozone layer.
The first CBD Conference of the Parties met in Nassau in 1994, after the Convention had entered into force.
Cross-check
The CBD Secretariat’s history and the official UN conference report both identify the 1992 Rio conference as the place where the CBD opened for signature.
Therefore, the event was the Earth Summit.