Essential contributions of wildlife health surveillance to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

In response to the urgent need to protect the environment, economy, and society, the United Nations (UN) developed the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in 2015. The Sustainable Development Goals expand on the Millennium Development Goals as part of the UN’s broader effort to address global development needs. These goals aim to end poverty and other deprivations by improving health and education, reducing inequality, addressing climate change, and preserving oceans and forests. Protecting wildlife health, which is intrinsically linked to ecosystem health, can enhance socio-ecological resilience and support a sustainable future. Wildlife health surveillance is a vital tool for monitoring and mitigating health hazards and disease risks across species and ecosystems, contributing significantly to human, animal, and environmental health. We have identified comprehensive ways in which wildlife health surveillance activities are essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly: Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), Climate Action (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14), Life on Land (SDG 15), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). We highlight the importance of investing in and optimizing wildlife health surveillance to advance the global sustainability agenda. Sustainable surveillance systems tailored to local contexts are key to achieving the SDGs.