The recently released Nature Conservation Index (NCI) places South Africa 25th out of 180 countries, recognising strides in biodiversity conservation while highlighting significant areas needing improvement. The NCI, developed by BioDB, evaluates countries based on 25 critical indicators across land management, species protection, governance, and future conservation trends. Despite its mid-level global position, South Africa faces challenges, notably in marine conservation and governance stability, which impact the country’s ability to effectively enforce environmental policies. South Africa has 42 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) as of 2024, only 5% of our territory. Speaking to IOL, Assaf Levy, CEO and founder of BioDB, explained the purpose of the NCI as a tool to fill "an important gap in how conservation efforts are measured and reported.” Levy underscored the need for accessible data to guide policy improvements." "We hope decision-makers will use this information to direct conservation efforts into the areas where countries are lagging behind." For South Africa, he noted, "marine conservation" remains a priority challenge, given widespread gaps in sustainable fishery practices and adequate marine protected areas.