Ideas from the Speakers
A major theme was that nature and biodiversity are closely connected to specific places—certain areas are critical for conservation while others may hold less ecological significance. Protecting nature is not a one-size-fits-all effort; it requires targeted, science-based approaches that recognize the areas truly critical for conservation. Speakers questioned traditional approaches and called for a renewed mindset: to truly solve environmental challenges, we must first “fall in love with the problem.” Creativity, systems thinking, and collaboration are essential tools to drive progress.
The “30x30” initiative—protecting 30% of the planet’s oceans, lands, and freshwaters by 2030—was a focal point, with debates on how to measure its success and whether it is enough. The Biodiversity Intactness Index was proposed as a tool to evaluate biodiversity, and a suggestion emerged: if each country protects its most crucial 30% of land and sea, we could preserve 95% of the planet’s ecosystems. However, real-world application varies. The UK, despite protecting 34% of its land, is one of the most nature-depleted nations in the G7 because it protects the wrong areas. Meanwhile, Brazil has made progress, but key lands remain unprotected, posing ongoing risks.
Science-backed solutions are already emerging. Go Forest, a global network monitoring over 7 million trees, is helping scientists understand how forests react to climate change. Similarly, advances in real-time carbon measurement techniques in mangroves are replacing outdated regional estimates, enabling more precise management of these vital carbon sinks. These examples reinforce that good science does not just inform policy but also actively drives practical, on-the-ground conservation efforts.
Data transparency and collaboration are also important. Participants stressed that open, accessible data is essential for making informed decisions. Extensive research networks have amassed decades of data on forest health, biodiversity, and ecosystem changes. These datasets, when shared openly and analyzed collaboratively, can help guide training programs and capacity-building initiatives that empower local communities and decision-makers alike.
Insights from the Audience
The audience acknowledged that, although progress has been made—over 190 countries committing to the 30x30 goal—we are still losing the battle against destructive environmental forces. Three key issues emerged from the discussion.
Funding gaps: There is growing concern that philanthropy has not kept pace with global wealth, leaving conservation efforts chronically underfunded. The financial sector’s inherent risk aversion means many investors prefer "safe," predictable returns over the bold investments needed to drive environmental innovation.
The need for effective storytelling: Scientific facts, while crucial, are no longer enough on their own to drive meaningful change. Instead, compelling, locally relevant narratives that turn abstract data into clear, emotionally engaging messages are needed. In the US, polling showed that even among conservative voters, 88% support nature protection. People care less about abstract climate issues and more about preserving their own communities.
Harnessing capitalism for conservation: Market forces need to be harnessed rather than fought. Participants argued for innovative financial models and regulatory frameworks that can unlock private-sector investment. The idea is not to replace market mechanisms but to work within them to create high-quality conservation projects that generate benefits for both nature and society. This approach involves a mix of data-driven regulations, financial incentives, and public engagement to drive systemic change.
The session offered a compelling vision of a future where conservation is not defined solely by meeting numerical targets but by strategically protecting the places that matter most. It was a call to action that emphasized the need to understand local contexts, harness robust data, and engage in genuine collaboration. In an era when systemic change is both urgent and possible, the discussions underscored that the road to a sustainable planet begins with a mindset shift—one that celebrates the complexity of nature and the power of human ingenuity to protect it.
