Meeting the Aichi targets: Pushing for zero extinction conservation

Area of Science:

• Conservation Biology
• Biodiversity
• Ecology

Background:

• Approximately 19,000 IUCN-listed species face extinction threats.
• Alliance for Zero Extinction (AZE) species and sites are critical for achieving global biodiversity targets.
• Amphibians are particularly vulnerable due to small, single-site populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of protecting AZE species and sites.
• To advocate for a coordinated, second-generation initiative for AZE conservation.
• To highlight the importance of collaboration among conservation organizations and governments.

Main Methods:

• Identification of AZE species and their critical habitats.
• Analysis of conservation needs and potential protection strategies.
• Review of existing conservation frameworks and targets (e.g., Aichi 2020 Targets).

Main Results:

• Protection of AZE species and sites is feasible and cost-effective.
• Urgent action is required to prevent extinctions.
• Existing conservation expertise can be leveraged for effective AZE conservation.

Conclusions:

• A coordinated, ground-level conservation initiative is essential for AZE species.
• Collaboration between zoos, NGOs, and governments can maximize long-term survival.
• Addressing AZE species conservation is key to meeting global biodiversity goals.