An exploration of endangered wildlife and their ecosystems - World Wildlife Day 2022

Wildlife is an irreplaceable asset that plays a key role in the health of ecosystems and societies alike. Today over 8,400 species are critically endangered, and many thousands more are endangered or vulnerable. The loss of any of these unique animals and plants is a loss for the planet. Ecosystem degradation can threaten local cultures and livelihoods, especially in low-income countries and vulnerable communities, as species loss affects and the natural balance that many depend on for food, water, tourism revenue, and related jobs.

This makes biodiversity loss a critical development issue as well as an ecological priority. The Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the World Bank are working together to protect wild species and their habitats through several initiatives, including the Global Wildlife Program (GWP). Together with local, national, and international partners we are working to target threats to biodiversity such as illegal wildlife trade, deforestation, and over-fishing.