Opinion | Why it is vital to broaden conservation framing beyond protected areas
Summary
Nepal aims to expand protected land to 30% by 2030 under the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, urging a broader conservation approach beyond protected areas to include local communities and diverse ecosystems.
Key Points
- Nepal plans to increase protected land from 23% to 30% in line with the global 30x30 biodiversity conservation target.
- Current conservation focuses narrowly on protected areas and charismatic species, neglecting broader ecological and social contexts.
- Centralized conservation has marginalized indigenous peoples and local communities, causing tensions and injustices.
- The Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework promotes inclusive, holistic conservation involving local communities, rights, and gender justice.