Traditionally, biodiversity conservation focused on very specific areas and habitats with diverse flora and fauna communities. However, long-term research and studies have shown that there is a need for conservation to be done at the landscape level as biodiversity depends on the various interconnected ecosystem services which help sustain life. As such, there is a need to change our spatial planning and management processes. Being the guiding documents for our nation’s development, our spatial plans need to start incorporating principles for biodiversity and habitat conservation, which will also boost ecosystem resilience to climate change.
This target specifically focuses on mainstreaming biodiversity conservation into our planning documents. In particular, it calls for better spatial planning across important landscapes and seascapes, specifically when it comes to the management of our land, and coastal areas for future development. We also need to strengthen conservation in our urban areas. New townships should incorporate natural areas into their design to leverage their recreational and aesthetic values. Our landscaping measures also need to be strengthened so that urban areas can be a refuge for wildlife, especially pollinators and seed dispersers.
| Global Targets | Degree of Alignment |
GBF-T01. All areas are planned or managed to bring loss of areas of high biodiversity importance close to zero GBF-T01. All areas are planned or managed to bring loss of areas of high biodiversity importance close to zeroEnsure that all areas are under participatory, integrated, and biodiversity inclusive spatial planning and/or effective management processes addressing land and sea use change, to bring the loss of areas of high biodiversity importance, including ecosystems of high ecological integrity, close to zero by 2030, while respecting the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities. | Medium |
GBF-T12. Urban green and blue spaces enhanced for human well-being GBF-T12. Urban green and blue spaces enhanced for human well-beingSignificantly increase the area and quality and connectivity of, access to, and benefits from green and blue spaces in urban and densely populated areas sustainably, by mainstreaming the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, and ensure biodiversity-inclusive urban planning, enhancing native biodiversity, ecological connectivity and integrity, and improving human health and well-being and connection to nature and contributing to inclusive and sustainable urbanization and the provision of ecosystem functions and services. | Medium |
To effectively promote environmental sustainability, it is crucial to strengthen biodiversity conservation elements in national, state, and local development plans, ensuring that these frameworks incorporate strategies to protect and restore natural habitats. Additionally, enhancing urban biodiversity conservation is essential to mitigate the impacts of urbanization on ecosystems, creating green spaces and integrating nature into city planning. This dual approach will help preserve diverse species and ecosystems across both rural and urban settings, contributing to a more balanced and resilient environment.
The actions in the NBSAP are mapped to align with the global targets.
The non-state commitments are detailed in the implementing agencies in Malaysia's NBSAP.