Models and Indices
Collating and analysing vast amounts of data from around the globe is vital to ensuring that we have a clear picture of what is happening to biodiversity, species and conservation efforts. ZSL is involved in deleoping new systems for gatherig data together, as well as using thsi data to produce valuable insights into conservation issues.
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How Ecosystems are Functioning
ZSL's innovative Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), uses satellite data to describe the functionality of ecosystems, revealing the effectiveness of protected areas for the first time.
Find out about NDVI
Sampled RED List Index
The new Sampled Red List Index (SRLI) is an amazing tool for communicating the status of the world's biodiversity. It enables conservationists to identify threatened groups and highlight ecosystems rich in vulnerable species.
More on the SRLI
Wildlife Picture Index
The Wildlife Picture Index (WPI) uses the latest camera trapping technology to monitor wildlife in conservation and wilderness areas across the globe. This novel approach is initially being piloted in five countries.
Read about the WPI
Evolution Lost
Within the next century we stand to lose one quarter of all vertebrates. ‘Evolution Lost’, produced by ZSL with WWF, IUCN and SSC, considers for the first time the current status and trends of global vertebrates.
More on Evolution Lost
Surveying Population Densities
ZSL scientists have developed an innovative model that could revolutionise conservationists’ ability to determine species population densities. This couples formulae adapted from gas molecule physics with camera trap data. Read more
The Living Planet Index
The Living Planet Index (LPI) is a measure of the state of the world’s biological diversity based on population trends of vertebrate species globally.ZSL and WWF are developing rigorous methods to inform conservation worldwide.
Read about the LPI
National RED List Websites
National Red Lists enable nations to identify threatened species and develop effective action plans. The National Red List website is the first centralised source of national-level biodiversity data.
National Red List Website
EDGE of Existence
ZSL's EDGE of Existence programme is the only global conservation initiative to focus specifically on highly threatened species with a significant amount of unique evolutionary history. We currently focus on mammals, amphibians and corals.
More about EDGE
