India Ranks 176th in Global Nature Conservation Index 2024

India has ranked 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index 2024, ranking 176th out of 180 countries. The index evaluates conservation efforts using four key pillars: land management, threats to biodiversity, capacity and governance, and future trends.

About the Global Nature Conservation Index

First-ever Nature Conservation Index launched in October 2024
Developed by Goldman Sonnenfeldt School and BioDB.com
Evaluates conservation efforts using four key pillars:
- Land management
- Threats to biodiversity
- Capacity and governance
- Future trends
Uses 25 performance indicators based on World Bank and IUCN data
Designed as unbiased tool to assess conservation challenges
Helps governments and organizations enhance conservation policies

India's Performance Analysis

Overall score: 45.5 out of 100, ranking 176th among 180 countries

Category-wise rankings:

- Land Management: 154th (score 42)
- Threat to Biodiversity: 177th (score 54)
- Capacity and Governance: 115th (score 60)
- Future Trends: 133rd (score 35)
Among bottom five performers alongside Kiribati, Turkey, Iraq, and Micronesia
Particularly poor performance in marine conservation
- Only 0.2% of national waterways protected
- No protection within Exclusive Economic Zone

Key Environmental Challenges

53% land conversion rate for urban, industrial, and agricultural use
High pesticide usage and soil pollution concerns
Sustainable nitrogen index at 0.77

Significant biodiversity threats:

- Loss of 23,300 sq. km tree cover (2001-2019)
- 67.5% marine species showing population decline
- 46.9% terrestrial species facing population decrease
Fourth-largest illegal wildlife trader globally
Annual illegal wildlife trade worth £15 billion
Climate change impacts on alpine regions and coral reefs

Global Rankings and Future Prospects

Top Performing Countries:

Luxembourg (70.8)
Estonia (70.5)
Denmark (69.0)
Finland (66.9)
United Kingdom (66.6)

Recommendations for Improvement:

Strengthen enforcement of conservation laws
Enhance international cooperation
Secure funding for environmental initiatives
Implement sustainable development practices
Focus on marine conservation
Address soil pollution
Protect remaining forest cover
Combat illegal wildlife trade

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