Reacción a "Reactions: two-thirds of conservation efforts help combat biodiversity loss"

The decline of global biodiversity is an ongoing problem with serious negative consequences for people. In order to address this situation, more than 121 billion dollars are dedicated annually to the conservation of the world's biodiversity. However, none of the 20 targets set by the Convention on Biological Diversity's Strategic Plan for Biodiversity has been achieved. While this might suggest that biodiversity conservation measures are being implemented to no avail, a more thorough analysis of these measures and their effects on biodiversity is essential. 

This comprehensive meta-analysis by Penny Langhammer et al. for the journal Science examines the impact of conservation actions by analysing a total of 186 studies. The study, unlike previous studies, takes into account the type of conservation action taken, its levels and the different effects on biodiversity over time. The methodology by which they carry out their research is described in detail, drawing on and analysing high-quality scientific articles. The authors highlight the importance of comparing the results of these conservation measures with a scenario in which no measures would have been implemented. 

They conclude that in two thirds of the cases, positive effects were obtained, either by improving the state of biodiversity or at least slowing down its decline. Of these actions, it should be noted that those focused on the eradication or control of invasive alien species had a high success rate. 

This study also highlights the need for conservation measures in many areas where they do not currently exist. It would be important to make comparisons of the current status of certain ecosystems or species in these areas with the status of similar ecosystems or species that have been subject to conservation measures elsewhere on the planet. It is essential to inform both the public and management agencies, so that they are aware that conservation measures work and are essential for society. The benefits of these actions are infinitely greater than their costs, and will undoubtedly be appreciated by future generations.