Wilderness areas halve the extinction risk of terrestrial biodiversity

Summary

This modelling study, published in Nature, quantifies the conservation value of remaining wilderness areas by demonstrating that extinction risk for species within wilderness communities is approximately half that of species in non-wilderness communities. Using spatial analysis and predictive modelling that combines habitat condition with species composition variation, the authors identify priority wilderness areas on every continent that would have the most marked effect on biodiversity if lost. The work highlights that these critical wilderness areas are often poorly protected, representing an urgent conservation priority alongside ecosystem restoration efforts in degraded environments.

Regional applicability

Whilst this is a global analysis rather than United Kingdom-specific research, the findings are relevant to UK conservation policy and land management strategy. The methodology and conclusions support the value of protecting remaining semi-natural and wild habitats in the UK alongside agri-environment schemes and restoration initiatives, and provide international context for prioritising wilderness-like areas (such as upland moorlands and native woodlands) in domestic conservation planning.

Key measures

Extinction risk probability for species in wilderness versus non-wilderness communities; relative contribution of wilderness areas to biodiversity persistence by continent; protection status of high-value wilderness areas

Outcomes reported

The study modelled the persistence probability of biodiversity by combining habitat condition with spatial variation in species composition to quantify extinction risk across wilderness and non-wilderness areas globally. The research identified which wilderness areas on each continent make the highest relative contribution to biodiversity persistence and assessed their current protection status.

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