The COP16 conference in Cali, Colombia, abruptly concluded without reaching an agreement on financing biodiversity protection, a key issue among nearly 200 participating nations. Delegates expressed frustration as funding concerns hindered progress, leading to a lack of quorum. Colombian Environment Minister Susana Muhamad, visibly emotional, highlighted some advances in discussions concerning climate change, marine protection, and the rights of Indigenous communities. However, calls from developing nations for increased commitment from industrialized countries remain unmet, with a proposed new biodiversity fund facing resistance, notably from the EU, leaving crucial funding questions unresolved.