Securing Nature’s Contributions to People requires at least 20%–25% (semi-)natural habitat in human-modified landscapes

| February 18, 2024 | Leave a Comment

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Publication Info: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oneear.2023.12.008

Date of Publication: January 19

Year of Publication: 2024

Publication City: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Publisher: Elsevier

Author(s): Awaz Mohamed, Fabrice DeClerck, Peter H. Verburg et al.

Journal: One Earth

Volume: 7

Pages: 59–71

Abstract

Biodiversity loss threatens crucial human well-being aspects, including food production, water quality, climate regulation, and recreation. We assess the minimum level of (semi-)natural habitat in agricultural and urban areas to sustain these benefits. We find that below 20%– 25% (semi-)natural habitat per km2, the supply of these benefits significantly declines. Alarmingly, two-thirds of global urban and agricultural lands fall below this level. Our study offers a broad target for conservation efforts beyond natural areas to enhance human well-being.

Highlights

  • We assess habitat quantity, quality, and spatial configuration in human-modified landscapes
  • At least 20%–25% habitat per km2 is needed to sustain nature’s contributions to people
  • Only one-third of global human-modified lands meet this minimum level
  • Local actions should be adopted based on community needs, knowledge, and capacities

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