As global leaders convene for the United Nations biodiversity and climate-change conferences, they are being urged to prioritize the protection of nature. Despite the challenges posed by war, geopolitical turmoil, and economic uncertainty, experts stress that preserving natural systems is crucial for the global economy and human well-being. Over half of global GDP depends on nature and the services it provides, including healthy soils that underpin a $9.5 trillion global food industry and forests that support 1.5 billion livelihoods worldwide.
The consequences of neglecting nature conservation are already being felt. This summer's drought in Europe resulted in $2-3 billion in crop losses, exacerbating the impact of the war-induced closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which caused fertilizer prices to surge by 71%. The combined effects of conflict and extreme weather have pushed global food prices to their highest levels since 2022. Scientists predict that a partial collapse of ecosystems could cost the global economy $2.7 trillion annually.
The global goal to protect and conserve at least 30% of the world's land and ocean by 2030, known as 30×30, has gained significant attention. Adopted by governments in 2022 under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, this goal recognizes that protecting nature is fundamental to providing public goods such as food and water security, livelihoods, public health, and long-term economic stability.
Four years on, the world has made progress toward the 30×30 goal, with 20% of land and inland waters now designated as protected or conserved. Fully delivering on existing commitments could increase this share to approximately 27% by 2030. However, progress at sea has been slower, with only 10% of the ocean formally designated for conservation, and existing commitments would increase this to a mere 12% by 2030.
To achieve the 30×30 goal, governments must dramatically increase financing for nature, which is estimated to require approximately $100–180 billion annually, compared with current annual spending of $24 billion. However, this investment could add up to $450 billion to annual global GDP by 2050 and support an estimated 4–7 million jobs.
Policymakers at all levels must move from talking about solutions to implementing them. Many countries have yet to follow up with mapped, costed, and financed plans, and commitments alone will not protect nature. Protecting more of the planet is only part of the challenge; governments also must ensure that protected and conserved areas are well managed and deliver real benefits.
According to Mary Robinson, a former president of Ireland and a former UN Secretary-General's special envoy for climate change, protecting natural systems is not just for the environment, but an investment in human well-being and economic stability. With just four years remaining, the world still has a chance to achieve 30×30, but it requires urgent action and cooperation from governments, policymakers, and stakeholders.
Key points
- The global goal to protect 30% of land and ocean by 2030 is crucial for preserving natural systems and promoting economic stability.
- Neglecting nature conservation could cost the global economy $2.7 trillion annually.
- Increased financing and effective management of protected areas are essential for achieving the 30×30 goal.
