Almost half of the Earth’s surface must be protected to stop the biodiversity crisis, according to a new report published in the journal Science.
The study found some 64 million square kilometers -44% of the Earth’s land – needs “conservation attention” to prevent major biodiversity losses.
“We must act fast, our models show that over 1.3 million square kilometers of this important land — an area larger than South Africa — is likely to have its habitat cleared for human uses by 2030, which would be devastating for wildlife,” says lead author Dr James R. Allan from the University of Amsterdam.
The study used advanced data modeling and algorithmic projections to map optimal areas for conserving species and ecosystems.
The new research found that 1.87 billion people live in areas requiring conservation attention, mostly in developing countries in Africa, Central America and Asia.
At a major UN environment conference in Stockholm, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres is calling on world leaders to end a “suicidal war against nature.”
He warned that unless humanity acts now, “we will not have a livable planet.”
“We know what to do. And, increasingly, wh have the tools to do it. But we still lack the leadership and cooperation. So today, I appeal to leaders in all sectors: Lead us out of this mess, “ said Guterres.
https://www.cnn.com/2022/06/03/world/earth-conservation-report-intl-hnk-scn/index.html