Scientists map biodiversity hotspots across Earth's land
An international team of scientists has identified 13% of Earth's land area as critical hotspots for vertebrate biodiversity conservation.
A new study published in One Earth analyzes data for thirty-three thousand six hundred species from the IUCN Red List to find these areas. The authors combine information on where threatened species gather with key human-driven threats such as agriculture and urbanization.
Approximately one third of global land is marked as a hotspot, with many concentrated within tropical forests and broadleaf woodlands. These vital zones shelter more than a third of humanity, highlighting the urgent need for local solutions that protect nature while aiding people.
The findings are particularly timely as national governments and local authorities prepare to review progress and update their commitments toward the twenty-three targets of the framework. These goals aim to be met by the year two thousand and thirty.
Identifying regions with high unique biodiversity facing human threats gives decision makers the information needed to help reverse the global biodiversity crisis. This data supports urgent action where it matters most for nature and people alike.