IFAW’s Post

Saving wildlife and habitats takes resources. Climate finance is one tool, but to truly protect nature, we need diverse conservation finance strategies. Let’s explore new ways to invest in our planet’s future. #COP29 #ConservationFinance #Biodiversity

https://lnkd.in/e_i7TXsf The study focuses on #protected #areas. "Moving forward, the study’s co-authors call for more and rigorous studies that look at the impact of conservation action versus inaction for a wider range of conservation interventions, such as those that look at the effectiveness of #pollution control, #climatechange adaptation, and the #sustainable #use of species, and in more countries."

I know there are lot of good people and lot of good work happening in the area of conservation...Surprised to see that our actions are not making any significant impact in protecting life on land or life below water,...thus being labelled among worst performers as per the global nature conservation index.

Canada's initiative to conserve 30% of its lands and waters by 2030 plays a vital role in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity. Indigenous communities are at the forefront of this endeavor, utilizing Guardians and leading initiatives to safeguard natural resources. Partners such as funders, governments, and businesses can aid these efforts by collaborating with Indigenous Nations and contributing to their conservation programs. In a recent article, I highlight the significance of supporting Indigenous-led conservation projects. This support not only benefits the environment but also fosters community resilience and generates sustainable economic opportunities. Read more about empowering First Nations leadership to advance Canada's conservation objectives: https://lnkd.in/gqHVXP9R

Curious to learn more about the impact of Indigenous leadership in conservation? Check out Eddy's article, where he highlights how supporting Indigenous-led initiatives can protect the environment, strengthen communities, and create lasting economic opportunities.

We are fortunate in Canada that our Government 30 by 30 Conservation plan is a broad based land and water initiative. It is not focused totally on Old Growth Forests - as some seem to have interpreted the plan. Conservation areas will include a mosaic of young forest areas, adolescent and mature forest areas, as well as water, desert and mountain areas. Protecting 10 percent of older, wildfire risk timber area leave enough trees for a viable forest industry, communities safer from wildfires, and have a broad network of biodiversity. The Federal Government says : As nature talks unfold, here's what '30 by 30' conservation could mean in Canada "When we talk about protecting land and water, we're talking about looking at a whole package of actions across broader landscapes," said Carole Saint-Laurent, head of forest and lands at the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The group's definition of "protected area," which is used by the UN convention on biodiversity, refers to a "clearly defined geographical space" that is managed by laws or regulations with the goal of the long-term protection of nature. "It can range from areas with very strict protections to areas that are being protected or conserved," said Saint-Laurent. "We have to look at that entire suite of protective and restorative action in order to not only save nature, but to do so in a way that is going to help our societies. There is not one magical formula, and context is everything." I trust our BC Provincial Government sees the initiative this way, too. They are committed to the 30 by 30 initiative.

🌍 Horizon Scan of Biological Conservation Issues: A Glimpse into the Future of Conservation As the world faces increasingly complex environmental challenges, it’s vital to stay ahead of emerging issues in biological conservation. I recently came across the *Horizon Scan of Biological Conservation Issues*—a comprehensive document highlighting key trends and challenges that demand urgent attention. This insightful report identifies potential threats and opportunities that could significantly impact biodiversity in the coming years. From climate change and habitat loss to the role of technology and global policy shifts, the document underscores the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and technological factors in shaping the future of our planet. 📌 Why is this important? The report serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, conservationists, and communities to prioritize proactive measures. Rather than reacting to crises, we must anticipate challenges and implement strategies to mitigate them effectively. For example, it highlights how rapid technological advancements could either harm ecosystems or serve as powerful tools for conservation. The choice is ours. 💡 My takeaways: As someone deeply committed to wildlife conservation, this document reinforced my belief in the importance of collaboration across disciplines. Conservation isn’t just about protecting species—it’s about addressing broader systemic issues like land-use change, pollution, and sustainable resource management. The insights also reminded me of the work I’ve been involved in, such as tackling woody encroachment in savanna ecosystems, and the importance of integrating local knowledge with scientific research to create sustainable solutions. Let’s use this as an opportunity to spark discussions, explore innovative solutions, and strengthen our collective efforts toward a more sustainable future. 📖 For those interested in conservation, I highly recommend diving into this document—it’s an eye-opener! UNEP-WCMC

In 2022, the world lifted ambitions for protection and conservation to 30% of land and water areas by 2030 as part of the Global Biodiversity Framework (#GBF). There’s been a surge of interest in 'other effective area-based conservation measures' (or #OECMs) to help meet that target. In a new paper published in Conservation https://lnkd.in/guEWRtd2, I and co-authors Thalie Partridge and Rebecca Keen, explore policy implications of OECMs in Australia and explore what type of land use and mechanisms might qualify as OECMs. The Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water is currently consulting on OECM policy https://lnkd.in/gWHfReMj and propose the 'intent' to manage land for 25 years is enough to qualify. As outlined in a piece for The Conversation below, this is not consistent with international guidance nor domestic policy on what constitutes 'long-term' in Australia. Ultimately, more land managed for conservation is good and all forms of area-based conservation should be encouraged. However, not all forms of area-based conservation are intended to qualify for inclusion in global biodiversity targets.  The Nature Conservancy, IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA), Australian Land Conservation Alliance, The Pew Charitable Trusts, WWF-Australia https://lnkd.in/gz-KgqJw

Conservation covenants (CCs) are a game-changer for environmental conservation in the UK. 🙌 If you’re new to the concept, CCs are legal agreements between landowners and designated responsible bodies, ensuring the protection and enhancement of natural or heritage features on land. These covenants are voluntary, private, and legally binding, offering a flexible way to achieve environmental outcomes without the need for land purchase. They secure long-term commitments, benefiting both present and future landowners. The introduction of CCs is helping to address the challenge of securing long-term environmental commitments, especially in the context of biodiversity net gain! They provide a flexible alternative to traditional planning obligations, such as S106 agreements, and are accessible to a wide range of organisations, including local authorities, public bodies, charities, and private sector organisations with conservation purposes. As of now, there are 5 designated responsible bodies who can enter into CCs with land owners: 👉 @Bracknell Forest Council 👉 @Harry Ferguson Holdings 👉 @Natural England 👉 @Northumberland County Council 👉 @RSK Biocensus Designation opens up opportunities for public companies and charities to benefit from emerging markets for biodiversity and ecosystem services, while also playing a crucial role in conserving our natural and heritage landscapes. If you're interested in becoming a designated responsible body, it’s definitely worth looking at applying. 👇 https://lnkd.in/eMmszXbg #ConservationCovenant #Biodiversity #BiodiversityNetGain #NatureRestoration #DesignatedResponsibleBody

Despite 10% of our ocean being protected only 2.8% is “truly effective”. But conservation costs money and the financial gap is only getting wider as our oceans resources are depleted. The philanthropic and private sector equally play a significant role in bridging that gap, by not only enabling 30% protection by 2030. But ambitiously targeting 30% of truly effective protection as the pathway to reversing marine biodiversity loss.