To address the lack of comparative data on global conservation efforts, researchers developed the Megafauna Conservation Index (MCI), evaluating 152 countries based on their spatial, ecological, and financial contributions to conserving terrestrial megafauna—species that are ecologically important but costly to protect.
The study found that North/Central America (90%) and Africa (70%) had the highest proportion of countries classified as major or above-average performers. In contrast, Asia (25%) and Europe (21%) had the highest share of underperforming nations. The MCI aims to guide countries in improving their efforts through three key strategies: expanding protected areas, increasing conservation funding (domestically or abroad), and rewilding landscapes.
The authors advocate for the regular publication of conservation rankings to encourage accountability, celebrate strong performers, and inspire global progress in megafauna protection.
