Researchers from Cornell University in New York have concluded that most of the planet’s natural areas essential to human well-being remain unprotected and face growing threats. The findings appear in Nature Communications, a leading peer‑reviewed science journal. The study adds to a growing body of evidence about the gap between biodiversity value and protection, a concern echoed by scientists and policymakers across North America in 2025.
Experts note that roughly half of the world’s land surface supports a wide range of natural resources and sustains life for about 27,000 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Yet only about 18 percent of these areas currently enjoy formal protection. This disparity highlights how much of Earth’s biodiversity remains exposed to risk from human activity, including land conversion and environmental degradation. The Canadian and American research communities stress that protecting these critical habitats is not just an environmental issue but a cornerstone of long‑term resource security and ecosystem resilience.
The researchers warn that up to 37 percent of natural lands could be redirected toward agriculture, oil and gas development, mineral extraction, or expanded urban and industrial footprints if proactive planning does not occur. That trajectory would intensify conflicts between energy or resource extraction goals and conservation targets, threatening services such as pollination, water filtration, climate regulation, and cultural and recreational value that communities rely on.
To address these pressures, scientists advocate for global land-use optimization that aligns energy development with biodiversity protection. They argue that strategic siting, smarter infrastructure placement, and integrated planning can reduce trade-offs. Practical examples include grazing livestock beneath wind turbines and establishing native pollinator gardens under solar arrays to support both energy production and ecosystem health. The emphasis is on compatibility and coexistence rather than a forced choice between growth and conservation.
The study’s lead author, Rachel Neugarten, stresses that thoughtful planning is essential to meeting renewable energy targets without undermining conservation goals. Without such planning, the push for cleaner energy could unintentionally degrade essential habitats, disrupt food chains, and erode the natural services that communities depend on. The message is clear: sustainability requires careful coordination between energy policy, land use, and biodiversity protection to secure a healthier future for people and wildlife alike.
Previous research has warned about the rapid decline in insect populations worldwide, underscoring how interdependent ecosystems are and how small shifts in land use can produce cascading effects on crop yields, pollination, and nutrient cycling. The Canadian and American scientific communities advocate that preserving natural lands is not a luxury but a practical strategy for maintaining agricultural productivity, climate resilience, and cultural heritage. Ongoing monitoring, transparent data sharing, and cross‑border collaboration will be key to translating these insights into effective protection and responsible development.