In 2026, three key UN conventions will hold their conferences of the parties in the same year — this is the so-called 'triple COP'. UNCCD COP17 will be held in Mongolia in August, CBD COP17 in Armenia in October, and UNFCCC COP31 in Turkey in November.
Such a coincidence occurs once every two years and opens up an opportunity to strengthen synergy between the conventions on climate, biodiversity and combating desertification. The incoming presidencies have already made this a priority.
Each conference includes special business forums: Business4Land Forum at UNCCD COP17 on 24 August, Business Forum at CBD COP17 on 25 October, and Business & Investment Summit at UNFCCC COP31 on 12–13 November.
The authors of the article — the heads of the secretariats of the three conventions — emphasize that the implementation of COP decisions occurs not only at the level of governments, but also in business, investment and innovation. They call for closer engagement with the private sector on policy, investment and market incentives.
The green economy already exceeds 5 trillion dollars a year and is projected to reach more than 7 trillion dollars by 2030. Companies oriented towards green markets receive valuation premiums and integrate nature and climate solutions.
Examples include agroforestry, battery recycling, water management at industrial sites, nature-based solutions and sustainable carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. However, investments in negative impacts on nature are still 30 times higher than nature-based investments.
Governments are increasingly integrating climate, biodiversity and land issues into strategies across ministries, and the G7 has recognized land degradation and drought as risk multipliers for peace and security. Business should also consider these topics as part of core business, not just the responsibility of the CSO.
How can business better use these opportunities in 2026?
In Ulaanbaatar, Yerevan and Antalya, companies will get platforms for learning, aligning efforts and participating in the global movement from ambition to action. In an era of fragmentation and upheaval, joint work by governments and business can become the foundation for resilience, competitiveness and prosperity.
- Business4Land Forum at UNCCD COP17 — 24 August.
- Business Forum at CBD COP17 — 25 October.
- Business & Investment Summit at UNFCCC COP31 — 12–13 November.
