The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework sets a goal to protect 30 percent of the planet's biodiversity by 2030, known as the "30x30" initiative. However, simply increasing the number of protected areas is not enough to meet this target, according to a recent report by the NGO Earth Insight. The report, published on October 8, 2026, highlights the need for conservation efforts to focus on the most critical areas for biodiversity, ensuring both effectiveness and equity in protection. The findings are timely, as the COP17 biodiversity conference is set to take place in Yerevan, Armenia, from October 19 to 30, 2026, where global leaders will discuss strategies for protecting the world's ecosystems. Earth Insight's report maps out critical biodiversity zones and protected areas that are at high risk due to oil and gas extraction. The report notes that the Congo Basin, which contains 58 percent of the region's forest cover, is under significant threat from industrial activities. Between 2001 and 2025, the basin lost 34 million hectares of forest, largely due to logging, mining, and agricultural expansion. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which hosts the majority of the basin's forest, is identified as the main center of deforestation in the region. This situation poses a major challenge to achieving the "30x30" goal. In response to these threats, the DRC launched the "Kivu-Kinshasa Green Corridor" in January 2025. This initiative aims to protect a vast area of land while also supporting local communities and promoting sustainable economic development. The corridor spans 54 million hectares and is intended to serve as a model for conservation that balances ecological protection with human needs. According to Earth Insight, at least 72 percent of this area is currently under threat from various forms of exploitation. The report underscores the importance of prioritizing the most vulnerable and ecologically significant regions in conservation planning. Without a focused approach, even the expansion of protected areas may not be sufficient to halt the loss of biodiversity. The findings from Earth Insight are expected to play a key role in shaping the discussions and decisions at COP17, as nations work to address the urgent challenges facing global biodiversity.