WWF's report reveals 2/3 decline in wildlife populations on average since 1970

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Photo taken on Dec. 8, 2019 shows a dead Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) caught in a tuna pen, Port Lincoln, South Australia. [Photo courtesy of WWF]

The Living Planet Report 2020 also includes pioneering modelling which shows that without further efforts to counteract habitat loss and degradation, global biodiversity will continue to decline. Based on a paper, 'Bending the curve of terrestrial biodiversity needs an integrated strategy,' co-authored by WWF and more than 40 NGOs and academic institutions and published in Nature, the modelling makes clear that stabilizing and reversing the loss of nature caused by humans' destruction of natural habitats will only be possible if bolder, more ambitious conservation efforts are embraced and transformational changes made to the way we produce and consume food. Changes needed include making food production and trade more efficient and ecologically sustainable, reducing waste, and favoring healthier and more environmentally friendly diets.

The research shows that implementing these measures together rather than in isolation will allow the world to more rapidly alleviate pressures on wildlife habitats, thereby reversing the decline in biodiversity trends.

The Living Planet Report 2020 launches less than a week before the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly, when leaders are expected to review the progress made on the Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The UNGA 2020 will bring together world leaders, businesses and civil society to develop the post-2020 framework for action for global biodiversity.

It thus marks a milestone moment to set the groundwork for an urgently needed New Deal for Nature and People, according to Lambertini.

"Scientists have shown us the way forward by using the advanced modeling," said Zhou. "It is not easy to make the transition, which requires strong leadership, unity, and enforcement."

"In working towards ecological civilization, China has made tremendous efforts to strengthen conservation while promoting sustainable production and consumption. We support China to play a bigger role on the international stage, including at the coming UN Nature Summit, the CBD COP 15 in Kunming next May and COP 26 of UNFCCC", he added.

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