Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet

The Convention on Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) is the only global treaty of the United Nations focused on the conservation of migratory species and their habitats. Sufficient and reliable funding is absolutely essential in order to succeed in our mandate.    

Migratory species are an integral part of healthy, well-functioning ecosystems. They pollinate plants, disperse seeds, control pests and diseases, maintain grasslands, and even help regulate marine and freshwater environments. In many cultures, migratory species also hold deep symbolic importance and are integral to local heritage and traditions. They also contribute countless benefits that we are still learning more about, including for climate change mitigation and resilience.

The regular, cross-border journeys of migratory species reflect the interconnectedness of the planet and highlight the need for financing that transcends national boundaries.

Robust conservation finance provides economic benefits through jobs and income, bolsters food security, and supports livelihoods in sectors including agriculture, tourism and fisheries. Investing in migratory wildlife simply makes financial sense.

Yet, securing investments for wildlife conservation may be challenging amidst many competing priorities. In addition, some governments may   lack the resources to meet global conservation targets. Raising the estimated USD 824 billion required annually for protecting and restoring nature presents a significant opportunity for innovation, collaboration, and transformative finance.

To keep pace with intensifying threats faced by migratory species, such as habitat loss, overexploitation, climate change, and pollution, every available financial tool needs to be mobilized, from debt-for-nature swaps and wildlife credits to blended finance models and biodiversity bonds.  At the same time, subsidies that are harmful to nature should be ended, and the savings redirected for beneficial purposes.

Over the years, CMS has demonstrated that effective conservation financing delivers tangible results. In Kazakhstan, funding from the national government, international donors, NGO grants, and other support enabled effective anti-poaching enforcement and habitat protection for the Saiga Antelope. As a result, Saiga population numbers went from roughly 20,000–30,000 in the early 2000s to more than a million today. Their recovery also resulted in the restoration of habitats and landscapes that contribute to water supply, vegetation balance, and provide critical stop-over sites for millions of migratory waterbirds each year.

When we invest in the conservation of migratory species, we invest in a resilient future for both people and the planet. Together we can ensure these magnificent animals continue their journeys around the world, sustaining the intricate web of life that supports us all.