Science
Overview
WWF’s conservation work is grounded in science. Our scientists develop innovative approaches and apply the best available information to efforts directed at meeting the needs of both nature and people in a changing world.
WWF draws on biology, hydrology, oceanography, and the social sciences to advance cutting-edge conservation tools and methods, connect natural and social systems, and tackle emerging threats. Our scientists track conservation needs and lead regional and global analyses to identify and set priorities for the world’s valuable habitats and species. We also rely on the scientific process to ensure that our on-the-ground conservation programs are effective and producing measurable results.
Current status

What WWF Is Doing

Building science capacity: Marleine Aboumgone, winner of a scholarship with WWF’s Russell E. Train Education for Nature (EFN) program.
We harness the power of science to advance conservation of the most important species and places. Scientific publications, computer-based tools, and data sets generated by WWF strengthen the integrity of conservation efforts worldwide. WWF’s seminar and symposia series foster scientific discourse and facilitate the cross-fertilization of ideas across sectors. Other conservation organizations, government agencies, and academic researchers regularly adopt WWF’s innovations.
Connecting Scientists
WWF employs a wealth of scientific expertise in its work around the world. Sharing information among WWF’s hundreds of dispersed scientists is critical to accelerating conservation. The WWF Conservation Science Network connects, supports and grows this community by providing access to the latest information and techniques, coordinating training and providing opportunities for collaboration.
Data and Tools
WWF Publications
Peer Reviewed Publications
Meet the Scientists

Valuing Nature

Natural ecosystems support livelihoods and economies in countless ways: they store carbon to slow climate change, purify and regulate water supplies, pollinate crops, and provide food and medicine. WWF scientists quantify these benefits and map their sources so the value of these ecosystem services are included in policy and decisions.
Creating Powerful Conservation Tools
WWF scientists use new technology to answer key conservation questions. Wireless internet, global telecommunication systems, cloud computing, online mapping, and smart phones help us approach scientific research in new ways. Our analyses enable decision makers and field practitioners to quickly incorporate the best information into their work.
Assessing the Impact of Conservation

WWF scientists are leading an effort to determine which conservation strategies are working well, which need improving, and, most importantly, why. They are doing this through “impact evaluation,” a new application of the scientific method that draws upon best practices in the medical and education sectors.
Advancing Science: Fuller Science for Nature Fund
The Kathryn Fuller Science for Nature Fund supports and harnesses the most promising conservation science research and puts it into practice. Named in honor of the former president and CEO of WWF-US, the fund supports an annual Science for Nature Symposium featuring global leaders in science, policy, and conservation. Additionally, a regular seminar series provides a regular forum for the conservation community to learn, discuss, and network.
Adapting to Climate Change
WWF scientists and colleagues research climate change impacts and analyze data to find ways to build resilience for vulnerable people, species, and their habitats. We strive to provide practical solutions for conserving biodiversity by developing a new paradigm of "climate-smart" conservation that focuses on best practices to reduce vulnerability and enhance resilience by putting nature at the center of sustainable development.
Supporting Conservation Leaders
WWF knows that investing in training and education is critical for biodiversity conservation. That's why for nearly two decades the Russell E. Train Education for Nature Program (EFN) has been providing financial support to proven and potential conservation leaders in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to gain the skills and knowledge they needed to address the conservation challenges in their home countries. EFN supports conservationists to pursue graduate studies, attend short-term training courses, and train local communities in WWF priority places.
I gain happiness, health, security and inspiration from nature every day. I am committed to enabling decisions that ensure we all continue to reap those benefits from nature for generations to come.
Emily McKenzie Manager, Natural Capital Project
Projects
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Kathryn S. Fuller Science for Nature Seminar Series
WWF’s Science for Nature Seminars provide a regular forum for the conservation community to learn, discuss, network and inspire. The series seeks to advance the discussion of cutting edge research relating to critical topics in international conservation by featuring distinguished scientists from across the globe.
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2011 Fuller Science for Nature Symposium
The 2011 symposium titled “Conservation Forward” brought together a diverse group of conservation leaders and change makers to answer one critical question: What are the most promising new ideas and innovations for effecting conservation?
Publications
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Global Guidance for Life Cycle Impact Assessment Indicators
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Demystifying Economic Valuation: Valuing Nature Paper | June 2016
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Natural Capital: Theory and Practice of Mapping Ecosystem Services
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Monarch Butterfly: WWF Wildlife and Climate Change Series
Experts
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Colby Loucks Deputy Goal Lead and Senior Director, Wildlife Conservation Program
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Robin Naidoo Senior Conservation Scientist and Lead Wildlife Scientist
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Michele Thieme Lead Conservation Scientist, Fresh Water
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Rachel Kramer Deputy Chief of Party, Targeting Natural Resource Corruption
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Nilanga Jayasinghe Senior Program Officer, Asian Species
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Ryan Bartlett Lead, Climate Risk Management
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Nikhil Advani Lead Specialist, Climate, Communities and Wildlife
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Louise Glew Lead Scientist, Global Conservation Evidence
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Gabby Ahmadia Senior Marine Scientist, Oceans
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Chris Weber Global Climate and Energy Lead , Science
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Linwood Pendleton Global Oceans Lead Scientist
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Jeff Opperman Global Freshwater Lead Scientist