On March 9th, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) organised a training session focused on the STAR Metric. The STAR Metric, also known as Species Threat Abatement and Restoration Metrics, is a standardised spatial metric designed to assess the impact of threats on biodiversity. It takes into account various factors such as habitat conditions, restoration potential, and threat categories in order to identify areas where conservation efforts can effectively reduce the risk of species extinction.

The metric primarily focuses on mammals, birds, and amphibians, utilising data from the IUCN Red List and collaborating organisations. By calculating scores for threat abatement and restoration potential, it facilitates the identification of priority areas for conservation actions. Importantly, the metric is flexible, allowing assessments to be conducted at different scales ranging from global evaluations to specific locations.

The main objective of the meeting was to introduce participants to the STAR Metric, providing them with an understanding of its calculation process and potential application within the REST-COAST project. The session included practical examples showcasing how the metric is employed, while also offering attendees the opportunity to provide feedback and engage in discussions regarding its implementation within the REST-COAST project. Notably, the meeting saw the participation of 20 different partners associated with the REST-COAST project.