30×30: Achieving Conservation Success to Preserve Biodiversity

The fate of the world’s biodiversity lies in the hands of negotiators when they gather in Kunming, China later this year to finalize a global deal on biodiversity. The deal, titled “30 by 30”, aims to set aside 30 percent of Earth’s land and seas for nature by 2030. This ambitious target goes beyond previous commitments and could be a breakthrough in conservation efforts. However, there are concerns about whether it will be approved and whether it will be enough to address the biodiversity crisis.

Preserving biodiversity is crucial for various reasons. It provides essential ecosystem services such as clean air and water, fertile soils, and pollination. Additionally, intact nature offers psychological benefits, protection from climate change, extreme weather, natural disasters, and a reduced risk of spillover diseases like COVID-19. The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services emphasizes the significance of biodiversity conservation.