Global Biodiversity: Indicators of Recent Declines

TLDR

The Convention on Biological Diversity set a 2010 target to reduce biodiversity loss, but widespread conjecture suggests the target has not been met. The study analyzed over 30 CBD-developed indicators covering biodiversity condition, pressures, and responses, assessed from ~1970 to 2005. Taken together, the results confirm that we have indeed failed to meet the 2010 targets. Butchart et al.

Abstract

Global Biodiversity Target Missed In 2002, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) committed to a significant reduction in the rate of biodiversity loss by 2010. There has been widespread conjecture that this target has not been met. Butchart et al. (p. 1164 , published online 29 April) analyzed over 30 indicators developed within the CBD's framework. These indicators include the condition or state of biodiversity (e.g., species numbers, population sizes), the pressures on biodiversity (e.g., deforestation), and the responses to maintain biodiversity (e.g., protected areas) and were assessed between about 1970 and 2005. Taken together, the results confirm that we have indeed failed to meet the 2010 targets.