Nature conservation

Globally, 1 million plant and animal species are threatened with extinction, while a rich biodiversity is crucial for all life on Earth ^[1]IPBES Global Assessment (2019): https://www.ipbes.net/news/million-threatened-species-thirteen-questions-answers. For our food supply, we depend on birds, bees and other pollinators: together these insects are responsible for a third of global food production [source]. Nature also plays a fundamental role in regulating the climate. For example, forests absorb CO2 and peatlands retain large amounts of water which they release in times of drought. Moreover, the disappearance of a species, such as the jaguar or the hedgehog, is also a huge loss in itself. That is why IUCN NL works to protect their habitat, stop wildlife crime and enforce a strong nature policy.

IUCN Red List

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species is the most widely used source worldwide on the status of animal and plant species. The Red List is compiled through an objective system that assesses what the risk of extinction of a species is. This list can then be used to set conservation priorities. Twice a year, IUCN shares which species populations have declined or increased.

Protected areas

One of the most successful tools for conserving the Earth’s biodiversity is protected nature reserves. IUCN NL’s Land Acquisition Fund supports nature organisations on the ground to secure endangered nature. These nature reserves are of great importance for the species that live there and for the livelihood of the people who live here. In addition, the area often has cultural and spiritual values. IUCN NL is therefore also committed to projects in which local communities have a central role in managing protected areas.

Combating wildlife crime

Poaching poses a major threat to species like the rhinoceros or the jaguar. Besides the negative impact on the species themselves, it also affects people who depend on the ecosystems these animals are part of. Wildlife trafficking is often linked to other illegal activities, such as drug smuggling, and therefore also impacts the people living in the area. IUCN NL works with people on the ground to prevent and fight wildlife crime. We also work with our partner organisations in various countries to improve legislation on poaching and illegal wildlife trade. We also bring the issue of wildlife crime to the attention of the public and politicians

Technology and nature conservation

Technologies such as satellite imagery, spatial data analysis and drones are playing a growing role in nature conservation. For example, drones can detect illegal activities such as deforestation or fishing. This makes the work of conservationists easier and safer. But digital technologies are often inaccessible and/or expensive. That is why IUCN NL supports and facilitates partner organisations in the use of these innovative technologies, including through funding and training.

Nature policy

As the largest and broadest platform for Dutch organisations committed to nature and biodiversity, IUCN NL has a strong position to promote nature policy in the Netherlands. We do this by facilitating the exchange of knowledge and perspectives between our members and other parties, and by working to ensure compliance with international agreements and policies within Dutch nature policy.