Field of action 4: Conservation of biodiversity and habitats

Experts estimate that the rate of extinction of animal and plant species today is hundreds to thousands of times higher than the rate usually observed in evolution. Thus, the loss of biodiversity is as urgent a problem as climate change. The rate of species loss calls for action. At the same time, we do not yet know enough about the drivers of species extinction, the key factors, or the appropriate levers for engaging in countermeasures. In order to achieve the goals of halting species loss set out in the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, scientifically substantiated options for action and targeted strategies are urgently needed. With the Research Initiative for the Conservation of Biodiversity, which was launched in 2019, we are creating the necessary scientific foundations and are providing biodiversity research in Germany with a systemic and action-driven orientation. This enables effective recommendations for action to be made in accordance with the precautionary principle.