As the main instrument for implementing the Convention, NBSAPs are referenced in several COP decisions, pertaining to thematic areas, cross-cutting issues and stakeholder processes, indicating those areas that Parties have suggested should be included in NBSAPs. Parties are encouraged to review the decisions below for consolidated guidance on the NBSAP process, substance, components, support systems, and monitoring and review systems.

In decision 15/6 (Mechanisms for planning, monitoring, reporting and review), Parties are requested to submit revised or updated NBSAPs, including national targets, by COP-16, following the guidance provided in annex I of the decision, aligned with the goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Parties not in a position to do so are requested to communicate their national targets reflecting, as applicable, all the goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, as a standalone submission, by COP-16, in advance of submission of their full NBSAP.

In undertaking relevant national planning processes, including NBSAPs, Parties are urged in the above decision to use the headline indicators, supplemented by component and complementary indicators, contained in decision 15/5 (Monitoring framework for the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework), and other national indicators, according to their national circumstances.

Other main COP decisions providing direct guidance for NBSAPs include decision IX/8 and decision X/2.