Conservation Agreements

• Agreements and authorities that exist to protect and conserve species worldwide

  • Conservation Agreements
  • IUCN
  • CBD
  • CITES
• International cooperation is essential if conservation is to be successful
• IUCN


  The global authority on the status of the natural world and the measures needed to safeguard it
• IUCN duties


  Assessing the conservation status of animal and plant species around the world
• IUCN classification system


  Different categories and levels that a species can fall into depending on their population numbers and the threats and risks to those populations
• Scientists use data and modelling to estimate which category each species should be in
• Animals that are on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species can be seen online as this list is made public
• CBD


  Convention on Biological Diversity signed in 1992 with three main goals: conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of biological resources, and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources
• CBD requirements for signatory countries

  Design and implement national strategies for the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, and organise international cooperation and further international meetings
• CITES


  Global agreement to control the trade of endangered species and their associated products
• CITES appendices


  • Appendix 1: endangered species facing greatest risk of extinction
  • Appendix II: not currently endangered but trade needs to be controlled
  • Appendix III: species included at request of country regulating trade
• CITES trade regulations


  1. Appendix I: all trade banned

  2. Appendix II: export permit required

  3. Appendix III: permits required for regulated trade
• Scientists are continuously adding new species and reviewing the status of species already in the CITES database
• Concerns about the efficacy of CITES listings include increased price and incentive for illegal trade when certain species become banned
• Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS)

  Provided funding to farmers and private landowners in England who used environmental management strategies to protect and increase natural biodiversity
• CSS was replaced by the Environmental Stewardship Scheme (ESS) in 2005
• Requirements to qualify for ESS

  • Provide and protect valuable wildlife habitats
  • Ensure land is well-managed and maintains traditional character
  • Protect natural resources and historic features
  • Conserve traditional crops and livestock
  • Provide visitor opportunities to learn about the countryside and biodiversity