Comprehensiveness of conservation of useful wild plants

Calculation

Conservation scores are calculated for each plant species based on the proportion of its species range, geographic distribution, and ecological distribution that is safeguarded in gene banks (ex situ) and protected natural areas (in situ). In situ and ex situ scores are averaged (mean) and scores of 50 or above are considered "comprehensively conserved". Country estimates represent the proportion of plant species native to that country that are comprehensively conserved.

Definition

Proportion of wild plants that are sufficiently conserved or of low priority for further conservation action (due to existing conservation levels). Wild plants considered are those that have socioeconomic or cultural importance. The indicator includes conservation in gene banks (ex situ) and conservation in designated protected areas (in situ).

Relevance

Conservation of wild plants is needed to protect biodiversity and the full range of benefits that are provided by diverse plant species. These benefits can include nutrition and health derived from consumption, as well as ecosystem services that plants provide such as forage for livestock, game, and pollinators.