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A horizon scan of biological conservation issues for 2025

Published Article

Global

Publication date: December 4, 2024

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An international panel conducted the 16th global horizon scan to identify emerging issues likely to shape biodiversity conservation over the next decade. From 96 initial topics, 15 were prioritized, with technological advances especially prominent: metal and non‑metal organic frameworks, rare‑earth extraction from macroalgae, synthetic gene drives in plants and low‑emission cement. The scan also highlights accelerating impacts from Antarctic ice‑mass change and deteriorating air and water quality. Anticipating these issues can help conservation practitioners mitigate risks and leverage opportunities. The study emphasizes how emerging technologies and rapid environmental shifts will influence global biodiversity outcomes and the need for proactive planning.

 

Subject Tags

  • Biodiversity
  • Conservation Planning
  • Conservation Technology

Abstract

We discuss the outcomes of our 16th horizon scan of issues that are novel or represent a considerable step-change and have the potential to substantially affect conservation of biological diversity in the coming decade. From an initial 96 topics, our international panel of 32 scientists and practitioners prioritised 15 issues. Technological advances are prominent, including metal and non-metal organic frameworks, deriving rare earth elements from macroalgae, synthetic gene drives in plants and low-emission cement. We include new insights into accelerated impacts of changes to Antarctic ice masses and air and water quality. We hope that anticipating and mitigating negative impacts, and making best use of new opportunities related to these issues, will contribute to better outcomes for biological diversity.

Citation

Sutherland, W. J., Brotherton, P. N., Butterworth, H. M., Clarke, S. J., Davies, T. E., Doar, N., ... & Thornton, A. (2025). A horizon scan of biological conservation issues for 2025. Trends in Ecology & Evolution, 40(1), 80-89. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tree.2024.11.002

TNC Authors

  • Mark D. Spalding
    Senior Marine Scientist
    The Nature Conservancy
    Email: mspalding@tnc.org