Advances in systematic conservation planning to meet global biodiversity goals

Systematic conservation planning (SCP) guides the cost‑effective placement of conservation actions, and its relevance is growing under the Global Biodiversity Framework. Recent progress includes faster and more exact algorithms, integration of ecosystem services, incorporation of genetic and functional diversity, climate‑smart prioritization and wider accessibility through online tools. Despite these advances, gaps remain between SCP science and implementation. The authors recommend standardizing how planning uncertainty is communicated and expanding capacity‑building training to support decision‑makers. These steps can help ensure SCP fulfills its potential in global conservation efforts.