IUCN Green List

The IUCN Green List has started 2025 with new additions and renewals, marking progress in area-based conservation. 

Four new sites from West Asia and three renewals highlight the commitment to conservation efforts.

What is the IUCN Green list?

• IUCN stands for the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
• Objective: To promote successful nature conservation.
• It is Based on the Green List Sustainability Standard, which sets a global benchmark for conservation efforts.
• UCN implements the Green List programme with many partners around the world, including the UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre and WWF.
• Achievements of the IUCN Green List: Countrywise
  • Italy:  restarted green list process
    • Trained an Expert Assessment Group (EAGL) to evaluate the site.
  • Spain: resumed green list activities
    • It also trained an Expert Assessment Group.
  • France; Implementing green list since 2013
    • Has 15 sites already listed
      • Two Mediterranean marine protected areas are part of green list
        • Cerbere-Banyuls National Nature Reserve
        • Blue Coast Marine Park

Why is the Green List Important?

• It Provides expert guidance to help protected and conserved areas achieve fair and effective results.
• It Supports the survival and growth of wildlife and ecosystems while benefiting local communities.
• The initiative not only celebrates excellence but also serves as a tool to improve management practices globally.
  • It helps in contributing to biodiversity goals like the UN’s Aichi Target 11 and Sustainable Development Goal 15 (“Life on Land”).

What is a Green Listed Site?

A site that meets the IUCN Green List Standard and ensures:

• Respect for Local Communities – Engages stakeholders fairly.
• Effective Planning – Identifies key conservation needs.
• Strong Management – Monitors and protects natural resources.
• Successful Conservation – Benefits both people and nature.
• Contribution to Global Goals – Supports climate action, health, and sustainability.

New Additions and renewals 2025

• New Additions:
  • Sharaan Nature Reserve (Saudi Arabia): This is the first fully protected area in AlUla County and is important for restoring landscapes and wildlife. 
    • It has deserts, canyons, rich biodiversity, and ancient cultural heritage.
  • King Abdulaziz Royal Nature Reserve (Saudi Arabia): This reserve is supported by the highest levels of government. 
    • It has villages within it and is home to species like Sand gazelle and Arabian oryx. 
    • They have a successful reintroduction program.
  • Aqaba Marine Reserve (Jordan): This is the 90th listing on the Green List. It’s considered a top national priority and has resilient coral reefs.
  • Sir Bu Nair Protected Area (UAE): This area has unique ecological, geological, and cultural value. 
    • It’s on international environmental lists and has important marine life like turtles and migratory birds. 
    • It also has a history linked to pearl diving and fishing.
• Renewals:
  • Champ du Feu Managed Biological Reserve (France): This is a popular tourist spot and important for its economic and socio-cultural value. 
    • It also has traditional farming that helps maintain open environments.
  • Hochfeld Managed Biological Reserve (France): This is a smaller site but has similar rich wildlife associated with open areas and high-altitude forests.
  • Al Shouf Cedars Nature Reserve (Lebanon): This was one of the first sites in West Asia to be Green Listed. Local communities are actively involved in its management. 
    • It’s known for its Lebanese cedar trees and rich cultural heritage.

IUCN Red List vis i vis IUCN Green List