Trait‐based approaches and national biodiversity conservation

Abstract Biodiversity encompasses species diversity, functional diversity, genetic diversity, and phylogenetic diversity, which are outcomes of evolutionary and ecological processes. These biodiversity components play an important role in shaping ecosystem function and stability in distinct ways. National and international conservation programs have typically considered species diversity, while other dimensions of biodiversity are often neglected in conservation policy. In 2010, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) established the global Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011–2020 and Aichi Biodiversity Targets, which aim to halt biodiversity loss, enhancing ecosystem conservation and restoration. To deliver these global strategies and targets, CBD member countries have subsequently developed and implemented national biodiversity conservation action plans. Here, we investigated the use of functional trait‐based approaches in conservation policy at the national level to meet the Aichi Biodiversity Targets. Trait‐based approaches promote functional diversity within communities, supporting ecosystem services and human health and well‐being. We accessed the 5th and 6th National Reports submitted to the CBD over the last 11 years. We found that 26% of the countries incorporate trait‐based approaches in their 5th National Reports, and 33% incorporate trait‐based approaches in the 6th National Reports, highlighting widespread failure to consider functional diversity in decision making. We advocate for a greater focus on functional diversity in conservation policies for better conservation outcomes.