Study Proposes $263 Billion Plan to Prevent Extinctions

A recent study published in Frontiers in Science suggests that safeguarding just 1.2 percent of Earth’s land surface could avert the majority of extinctions. Led by conservation ecology expert Carlos Peres from the University of East Anglia, the research identifies 16,825 critical sites worldwide for protection, totaling 1.6 million square kilometers—an area approximately one fifth the size of the United States.

The study aims to support the United Nations’ ambitious “30-by-30 target,” wherein delegates pledged in 2022 to protect 30 percent of Earth’s surface by 2030. The estimated cost for expanding nature preserves to meet these goals is a staggering $263 billion. This sum primarily covers land acquisition, with many areas including private properties to be purchased at current market values over the next five years.

Peres emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that delaying protective measures could escalate costs and challenges in the future. He highlighted the lack of detailed strategies among most countries regarding the 30-by-30 targets, stressing the need for immediate action.

Tropical forests constitute about three-quarters of the identified sites, with countries like the Philippines, Brazil, and Indonesia hosting over half of these crucial areas. Russia stands out with the largest area proposed for conservation among individual nations, totaling approximately 138,000 square kilometers. African countries, including Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of Congo, also feature prominently on the list due to their rich biodiversity and high-value conservation areas.

The study focused solely on terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems, excluding marine environments and invertebrate species. While acknowledging the significant financial commitment required, researchers did not calculate additional costs associated with policing and maintaining these protected areas.

The findings will inform discussions at the upcoming COP16 biodiversity meeting in Colombia this October, where delegates will strategize on achieving global conservation goals amid mounting environmental pressures.