Compiling directory of endangered species

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities.

Agenda 21 recommends: processing, storing and analysing animal genetic data at the global level, including the establishment of a world watch list and an early warning system for endangered breeds; global assessment of scientific and intergovernmental guidance and review of regional and national activities; development of methodologies, norms and standards (including international agreements) and monitoring their implementation; providing related technical and financial assistance; periodically reviewing and reporting on the PGRFA (plant genetic resources for agriculture) situation using existing systems and procedures.

The World Conservation Monitoring Centre maintains the 1994 IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals, the internationally recognized data globally threatened animals, compiled in collaboration with the IUCN Species Commission.

The European Red List, adopted by the European Commission in 1991, is a list of taxa found in Europe which are threatened with extinction on a global scale. It comprises 60 mammals, 28 birds, 37 reptiles, 19 amphibians, 38 freshwater fishes, 238 invertebrates and about 4,500 vascular plants. This list indicates each species distribution in European member countries, with a reference to species occurrence outside Europe as well as global species status according to IUCN categories of threat. It is accompanied by recommendations on its application.

The Appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES Convention) identifies all species currently threatened with extinction which are or may be affected by trade, and all species whose trade needs to be regulated in order to avoid threatening their existence in the wild.