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.
5 lessons we've learned as women in conservation science
Scientists Shauna Mahajan and Gabby Ahmadia embrace a form of leadership that values cooperation over competition and challenge the barriers that women in science can face.

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

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.
WWF is my laboratory. We convert conservation projects into real-world ‘experiments’ that allow us to learn how social and ecological systems work. In some ways, we’re becoming mechanics, learning how conservation projects work, and fine-tuning them for maximum impact.
Louise Glew Global Conservation Evidence Lead Scientist, Global Science
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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WILDLABS.NET: Connectivity and collaboration to save the planet
Publications
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Making Better Decisions: How to use evidence in a complex world
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Living Planet Report 2020
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Global Guidance for Life Cycle Impact Assessment Indicators
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Demystifying Economic Valuation: Valuing Nature Paper | June 2016
Experts
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Colby Loucks Vice President, 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 Manager, Wildlife Conservation
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Ryan Bartlett Director, Climate Risk Management & Resilience
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Nikhil Advani Director, Climate, Communities and Wildlife
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Gabby Ahmadia Director, Marine Conservation Science, Oceans
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Chris Weber Global Climate and Energy Lead Scientist, Global Science
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Jeff Opperman Global Freshwater Lead Scientist, Global Science
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Dave Thau Global Data and Technology Lead Scientist, Global Science
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Christa Anderson Research Fellow, Global Science
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Nasser Olwero Director of Information Science, Global Science
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Pablo Pacheco Global Forests Lead Scientist, Global Science
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Kimberley Marchant Senior Director of Strategic Engagements, Global Science
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Alison Cross Director, Fishery Sustainability
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Brent Loken Global Food Lead Scientist, Global Science
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Nelly Kadagi Director of Conservation Leadership and the Education for Nature Program, Global Science