Exploring faunal conservation in carbon projects through Map of Life: A case study

Abstract

AbstractWith the onset of global change, forest species diversity has declined in recent decades as pristine habitat in biological hotspots rapidly diminishes. Many carbon mitigation efforts directed at decreasing emissions from forest degradation and destruction assume that faunal biodiversity will benefit from such efforts. Yet, conservation of faunal biodiversity is rarely considered in carbon mitigation plans. Despite this, forest preservation and reforestation through greenhouse gas frameworks such as Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation may provide means to conserve and enhance species richness while also sequestering carbon stocks simply through the establishment of large forest preserves. In this case study, students assess the disparities and synergies between management priorities focused on carbon sequestration and faunal conservation of amphibians, birds, and mammals. Future conservation practitioners need to gain experience balancing multiple, potentially competing, project goals especially within the context of climate change and habitat loss. Students using this case study examine the application of species data from Map of Life and the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List to assess real differences between 86 Verified Carbon Standard carbon mitigation projects based on location, certifications for additional priorities, and size of forest preserve.