Strengthening genetic diversity indicators under the Global Biodiversity Framework
In response to the Convention on Biological Diversity’s call for input on additional headline indicators (Notification 2025-044), the CCG contributed to a formal submission recommending targeted improvements to how genetic diversity is tracked under the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
The submission, lodged via the CBD Clearing-House Mechanism, focused on two complementary proposals aimed at closing key gaps in the current monitoring framework.
Elevating the “Populations Maintained” indicator
First, CCG recommended that the “Proportion of populations maintained within species” indicator (PM indicator; A.CY.22) be elevated from a complementary to a component indicator for Goal A and Target 4.
While the existing headline indicator for genetic diversity focuses on within-population genetic variation, the PM indicator captures the “between-population” component of genetic diversity. This dimension reflects population structure, local adaptation, and the capacity of species to persist across heterogeneous and changing environments. Without it, reporting on Target 4 remains incomplete.
Importantly, the PM indicator has a strong scientific foundation, is already in use and validated across multiple countries, and is maintained through existing international mechanisms, including work coordinated by GEO BON. It was also previously listed as a component indicator in earlier iterations of the monitoring framework.
Restoring the genetic diversity scorecard
Second, CCG recommended reinstating the Genetic Diversity Scorecard for wild species as a complementary indicator for Goal A, Target 4.
The scorecard provides a structured way to assess threats to genetic diversity and the effectiveness of conservation actions, even where DNA-based data are limited. Developed with substantial input from the conservation genetics community and supported by the Scottish Government, it has been peer-reviewed, nationally implemented, and designed for regular updates.
Crucially, the scorecard helps identify genetic risks in species that may not yet be classified as threatened, addressing a well-recognised blind spot in conservation assessments.
Why this matters
Together, these two indicators provide a more complete, feasible, and policy-relevant picture of genetic diversity change. They align with Essential Biodiversity Variables, draw on existing data sources, and meet the CBD’s criteria for indicators that are transparent, repeatable, and able to detect meaningful trends.
CCG’s submission emphasised that strengthening genetic indicators is not about adding complexity, but about ensuring that commitments under the GBF genuinely safeguard the adaptive potential of species, before losses become irreversible.