World lagging on key UN biodiversity targets

World governments are off track to meet a historic United Nations target to protect at least 30% of the planet's land and seas by the year 2030, according to a new study published Wednesday. The research by environmental groups Campaign for Nature and Together for the Ocean shows that about 20% of land and inland waters are designated as protected or conserved, following the signing of the 30×30 goal in 2022. If nations fully deliver on existing quantified commitments, the estimate could increase to 27% by the turn of the decade, the report said.