A study published on September 23, 2026, indicates that global governments are not on track to meet a United Nations target to protect at least 30% of the planet's land and seas by 2030. The research, conducted by environmental groups Campaign for Nature and Together for the Ocean, reveals that approximately 20% of land and inland waters are currently designated as protected or conserved, following the adoption of the 30×30 goal in 2022. If nations fulfill existing commitments, this figure could rise to 27% by 2030.
The 30x30 goal was established under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework at COP15, with nearly 200 nations pledging at least $200 billion (about €175 billion) annually to combat biodiversity loss. However, the study highlights that ocean protection is significantly lagging, with only 10% of the global ocean currently protected, which could increase to just 12% by 2030.
Together for the Ocean noted that marine ecosystems, including offshore and deep-sea habitats, remain vulnerable. Last month, the Convention on Biological Diversity, the UN treaty focused on global nature goals, also warned that countries are falling short of their targets.
The report identifies financing for conservation as a major obstacle to achieving global biodiversity goals, estimating that between $100 billion and $180 billion is required annually to meet the 2030 target. Currently, annual spending on conservation is only about $24 billion, with a significant shortfall in ocean funding, where approximately $16 billion is needed each year, but only an estimated $1.8 billion is being spent.
The upcoming UN biodiversity summit in Yerevan, starting October 19, will address the progress shortfall and explore strategies to get back on track.