Biodiversity declining even faster in ‘protected’ areas, scientists warn Cop16

In a recent study, scientists have raised serious concerns that simply designating key areas as protected will not suffice to achieve the 30×30 target aimed at halting nature loss, particularly in light of ongoing threats such as oil drilling in parks.

Phoebe Weston reported from Cali on October 24, 2024, highlighting that biodiversity is declining at a faster rate within protected areas than outside of them. This alarming trend serves as a wake-up call for global leaders convening at the UN’s Cop16 talks in Colombia to discuss strategies for combating nature loss.

The 30×30 goal, which aims to protect 30% of the world’s land and water by 2030, was established in a landmark agreement in 2022. However, researchers caution that simply increasing the number of designated protected areas does not guarantee better biodiversity outcomes. According to an analysis by the Natural History Museum (NHM), nearly a quarter of the world’s richest biodiversity areas are within protected zones, yet the quality of these spaces is deteriorating more rapidly than that of unprotected areas.

To assess biodiversity health, the study utilized the Biodiversity Intactness Index, which measures biodiversity percentages in relation to human pressures. Findings revealed a global decline of nearly 1.88 percentage points between 2000 and 2020. Within critical biodiversity areas—responsible for 90% of nature’s resources to humanity—22% are recognized as protected. Yet, the study indicates that biodiversity decreased by an average of 1.9 percentage points in non-protected zones and by 2.1 percentage points in protected ones during the same period.

Dr. Gareth Thomas, head of research innovation at NHM, highlighted the discrepancy between public perception and reality: “Most people assume that areas labeled as ‘protected’ will actually safeguard nature. Our research shows this isn’t necessarily the case.”

Currently, only 17.5% of land and 8.4% of marine areas are protected, an increase that falls short of what is needed to meet upcoming targets. Dr. Thomas emphasized that while the goal of 30×30 is critical, countries must also prioritize the effective conservation of existing ecosystems.

Adding to the complexity, oil, gas, and mining operations pose significant threats to vital biodiversity areas and Indigenous lands. For instance, Conkouati-Douli National Park in the Republic of the Congo—one of the most biodiverse regions—faces endangerment with over 65% of its area under oil and gas concessions. Reports indicate that vast stretches of protected landscapes, especially in the Amazon, Congo Basin, and Southeast Asia, are similarly at risk from exploration activities.

Emma Woods, director of policy at NHM, stressed the urgency of moving beyond the mere designation of more protected areas. “Our analysis makes it clear that achieving good biodiversity outcomes requires more than just numbers,” she said.

In light of these findings, Thomas remarked on the imperative for lawmakers to understand that the protection strategy shouldn’t be about meeting a quota. Meanwhile, experts like Ben Groom, professor of biodiversity economics at Exeter University, acknowledged the enthusiasm for the 30×30 initiative but cautioned against shallow policy implementations that prioritize meeting targets over ensuring quality conservation efforts.

As biodiversity continues to decline, the path forward requires a significant shift in how protected areas are managed and enforced.