Protected Planet Report 2018: Tracking Progress Towards Global Targets for Protected Areas

Based on the world’s most up to date records in the World Database on Protected Areas, managed jointly by UNEP-WCMC and IUCN, the report confirms that almost 15% of the earth’s land surface and inland waters, and just above 7% of the global ocean is now protected. However, marine areas under national jurisdiction have significantly more protection (17%) than Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, with only slightly over 1% of protection. The report further outlines the significance of this progress, as the conservation of biodiversity in protected and conserved areas provides the foundation for achieving the whole suite of Sustainable Development Goals. In particular, the ecosystem services of the world’s protected areas underpin global needs to address climate change; protect water sources and food production systems; alleviate disaster risk; and maintain health, well-being and the livelihoods of millions of people.