Protected Planet, developed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is a comprehensive online tool that provides up-to-date data on protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs) worldwide. This tool targets conservationists, policymakers, and finance professionals who focus on sustainability and environmental impact.

For finance professionals, Protected Planet offers valuable insights into the global status of protected areas and OECMs, helping to assess the financial risks and opportunities associated with conservation efforts. By providing real-time data on the management effectiveness and coverage of protected areas, finance professionals can better understand how conservation efforts align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, potentially influencing investment decisions and risk management strategies.

The platform allows users to explore different categories of protected areas, such as marine and terrestrial zones, and includes an API for easy data integration. The data can be instrumental for finance professionals involved in impact investing, sustainable finance, or those assessing risks related to environmental degradation. By tracking the progress towards global conservation targets, it can also help organisations measure their contributions to biodiversity goals, an increasingly important area for ESG reporting.

In summary, Protected Planet serves as an essential tool for finance professionals who need to stay informed about global conservation efforts and their implications for sustainable finance and investment.