By Scout Nelson
National governments and international organizations often face challenges when trying to balance environmental protection with economic development. A new global study suggests that better land use and land management can help achieve both goals at the same time.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota examined land use patterns across 146 countries to understand how biodiversity conservation, climate mitigation, and economic development can work together. The study combines environmental and economic data to identify ways countries can make better use of their landscapes while supporting agriculture, forestry, and conservation efforts.
The research introduces the idea of a landscape efficiency frontier, which measures the best possible balance among biodiversity protection, climate benefits, and economic value from farming, livestock, and forestry. The findings show that many countries currently operate below their potential, meaning improvements can be made without sacrificing one objective to achieve another.
The analysis reveals significant opportunities worldwide. Across the 146 countries studied, climate mitigation could increase by more than 200 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents, representing an increase of more than 20%. At the same time, economic value could grow by more than $350 billion, an increase exceeding 80%, while maintaining important biodiversity and climate outcomes.
The researchers found that these gains can come from smarter land allocation and improved farming practices. Selective restoration of forest areas, better use of productive land, and crop intensification in regions with lower agricultural yields can help deliver stronger environmental and economic results.
“We know we're facing both a climate crisis and a biodiversity crisis but, usually, the pushback against doing something about either is that it's going to cost too much,” said Stephen Polasky, lead author of the study.
The research team discusses the analysis in greater detail here.
The research also provides valuable information for organizations that support development projects around the world. Policymakers, financial institutions, and governments can use these findings to guide investments that support national economic goals while meeting international commitments related to biodiversity and climate change.
Researchers note that additional ecosystem services and economic activities could be included in future studies, creating even more opportunities to improve land management and sustainable development outcomes worldwide.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sizsus
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, Livestock, Weather