Open AccessSetting robust biodiversity goals
Author(s) -
Maron Martine,
JuffeBignoli Diego,
Krueger Linda,
Kiesecker Joseph,
Kümpel Noëlle F.,
ten Kate Kerry,
MilnerGulland E.J.,
Arlidge William N. S.,
Booth Hollie,
Bull Joseph W.,
Starkey Malcolm,
Ekstrom Jonathan M.,
Strassburg Bernardo,
Verburg Peter H.,
Watson James E. M.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
conservation letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.153
H-Index - 79
ISSN - 1755-263X
DOI - 10.1111/conl.12816
Subject(s) - outcome (game theory) , convention on biological diversity , clarity , biodiversity , action (physics) , set (abstract data type) , environmental resource management , risk analysis (engineering) , computer science , business , ecology , economics , biology , biochemistry , physics , mathematical economics , quantum mechanics , programming language
The new global biodiversity framework (GBF) being developed under the Convention on Biological Diversity must drive action to reverse the ongoing decline of the Earth's biodiversity. Explicit, measurable goals that specify the outcomes we want to achieve are needed to set the course for this action. However, the current draft goals and targets fail to set out these clear outcomes. We argue that distinct outcome goals for species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity are essential and should specify net outcomes required for each. Net outcome goals such as “no net loss” do, however, have a controversial history, and loose specification can lead to perverse outcomes. We outline seven general principles to underpin net outcome goal setting that minimize risk of such perverse outcomes. Finally, we recommend inclusion of statements of impact in action targets that support biodiversity goals, and we illustrate the importance of this with an example from the draft GBF action targets. These modifications would help reveal the specific contribution each action would make to achieving the outcome goals and provide clarity on whether the successful achievement of action targets would be adequate to achieve the outcome goals and, in turn, the 2050 vision: living in harmony with nature .