India, Dec. 16 -- New research questions whether protected areas are effectively conserving biodiversity.

Biodiversity loss continues inside many areas designated for protection.

Climate change and invasive species are undermining conservation efforts.

Many marine protected areas still allow damaging activities such as industrial fishing.

Scientists warn global targets risk prioritising coverage over ecological outcomes.

New research suggests that the rapid expansion of protected areas worldwide is giving a misleading picture of progress, with biodiversity continuing to decline inside many sites designated for protection.

The State of International 30x30 Funding report released December 2025 has called for a fundamental shift in how...