Species+ is an online platform developed by the United Nations Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) in collaboration with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) Secretariat. It serves as a centralised resource for information on species listed under CITES, the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS), and other multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs).
The primary audience for Species+ includes government agencies, conservation organisations, researchers, and policy makers involved in wildlife conservation and trade regulation. The platform provides comprehensive data on species listings, legal statuses, distribution, and trade information, facilitating informed decision-making and policy development.
For finance professionals, Species+ offers valuable insights into the legal status and trade regulations of various species. Understanding these regulations is crucial for assessing the financial risks associated with investments in industries such as timber, wildlife products, and pharmaceuticals, where compliance with international trade laws is essential. By utilising Species+, finance professionals can ensure that their investment portfolios align with environmental regulations and avoid potential legal liabilities.
The platform also features an Application Programming Interface (API) that allows institutions to integrate Species+ data into their systems. This integration can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of monitoring and reporting on species-related financial activities, further supporting compliance and risk management efforts.
In summary, Species+ is a comprehensive tool developed by UNEP-WCMC and the CITES Secretariat, designed to assist stakeholders in implementing CITES, CMS, and other MEAs. It provides essential information on species listings, legal statuses, and trade data, which is particularly relevant for finance professionals seeking to manage risks and ensure compliance in sectors impacted by wildlife trade regulations.
