A Robust Goal Is Needed for Species in the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework

In 2010, Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) adopted the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020 to address the loss and degradation of nature. Subsequently, almost all biodiversity indicators have continued to decline. Nevertheless, it is well established that conservation actions can make significant positive differences for species and ecosystems. Therefore, the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, which is currently being developed, has immense potential to motivate efforts to ‘bend the curve’ of biodiversity loss. Here we contend that Goal B on species, as articulated in the Zero Draft of the Post-2020 Framework, is inadequate for preventing extinctions, and ambiguous regarding reversing population declines, both of which are required to achieve the CBD’s proposed 2030 mission “to put biodiversity on a path to recovery for the benefit of planet and people”. We examine the limitations of the current wording of the goal and propose an articulation with a robust scientific basis. A global goal for species that strives to end extinctions and recover populations of all threatened and depleted species can help align actors towards the transformative actions and interventions needed to allow humans to live in harmony with nature.