Advances in systematic conservation planning to meet global biodiversity goals
Sylvaine Giakoumi, Anthony J. Richardson, Aggeliki Doxa, Stefano Moro, Marco Andrello, Jeffrey O. Hanson, Virgilio Hermoso, Tessa Mazor, Jennifer McGowan, Heini Kujala, Elizabeth A. Law, Jorge G. Álvarez‐Romero, Rafael A. Magris, Elena Gissi, Nur Arafeh‐Dalmau, Anna Meta×as, Elina Virtanen, Natalie C. Ban, Robert Mzungu Runya, Daniel C. Dunn, Simonetta Fraschetti, Ibon Galparsoro, R. J. Smith, François Bastardie, Vanessa Stelzenmüller, Hugh P. Possingham, Stelios Katsanevakis
Abstract
Systematic conservation planning (SCP) involves the cost-effective placement and application of management actions to achieve biodiversity conservation objectives. Given the political momentum for greater global nature protection, restoration, and improved management of natural resources articulated in the targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework, assessing the state-of-the-art of SCP is timely. Recent advances in SCP include faster and more exact algorithms and software, inclusion of ecosystem services and multiple facets of biodiversity (e.g., genetic diversity, functional diversity), climate-smart approaches, prioritizing multiple actions, and increased SCP accessibility through online tools. To promote the adoption of SCP by decision-makers, we provide recommendations for bridging the gap between SCP science and practice, such as standardizing the communication of planning uncertainty and capacity-building training courses.