Global Wildlife Populations Decline 73% Over Half Century

· Climate

A new report paints a dark picture of the state of global wildlife—but also highlights flickers of light where some populations are on the upswing. Over the past half-century, populations of thousands of vertebrate species across the globe have decreased in size by 73 percent on average, according to the "Living Planet" report. The findings underscore the scale of biodiversity loss driven by habitat destruction, climate change, pollution and overexploitation. However, the report also identifies species and regions where conservation efforts have reversed declines, offering evidence that targeted interventions can work. The report is among the most comprehensive assessments of vertebrate population trends and is widely used by policymakers, NGOs and researchers to track progress toward biodiversity targets.

Why it matters：This assessment quantifies the severity of biodiversity loss and provides evidence that conservation interventions can reverse declines, shaping global policy priorities and funding decisions.

Key points

  • Vertebrate populations declined by 73% on average over the past half-century.
  • The report is called the "Living Planet" report.
  • Some populations are on the upswing where conservation efforts have been effective.

Sources (original reporting)

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