Promoting the construction of a “Belt and Road” network of natural protected areas: Purpose, significance and pathway

Countries and regions along the Belt and Road play a crucial role in global biodiversity conservation; however, their current conservation practices are comparatively weaker than those of other countries worldwide. In light of the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework at the UN biodiversity conference, as well as the new journey towards achieving the “3030” target for global biodiversity conservation, it is imperative to promote the establishment of a comprehensive network of natural protected areas along the Belt and Road. This initiative can help to effectively address gaps in nature conservation, enhance integrity and connectivity within important ecosystems in this region, safeguard ecological security not only along the Belt and Road but also globally, and contribute to realizing the “3030 target” for biodiversity conservation. This study focuses on highlighting the strategic significance of the Belt and Road region in global biodiversity conservation while aiming to scientifically construct an efficient network of natural protected areas in the region. By employing methods such as gap analysis, connectivity analysis based on Minimum Cumulative Resistance Model, literature review, deduction etc., we analyze various aspects including biodiversity status and challenges faced by countries along with progress made in constructing and managing natural protected areas, and also the progress and challenges of cooperation on biodiversity conservation. Drawing upon international experiences related to establishing networks of natural protected areas, we propose for natural protected area construction along the “Belt and Road”. Ultimately, this study provides scientific foundations as well as management references for promoting cooperation among countries situated in this region while facilitating construction efforts aimed at constructing an interconnected network of natural protected areas.