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Who We Are

Our Science

Through bold collaboration and diverse perspectives, TNC expands scientific expertise and drives global impact.

A scientist standing in a river sampling invasive plants with a net.
Tree Measuring at Two hearted River Reserve © Drew Kelly/TNC

Follow the Science

At TNC, science is at the heart of everything we do. It guides every decision, shapes every strategy, and drives every solution. As we confront the crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, our commitment to world-class science has never been more important. Today, we’re focused on turning bold ideas into real-world impact, scaling solutions that drive lasting, systemic change for people and nature.

Hands planting a plant in an agricultural field.
Sustainable farming Agriculture in Tennessee is more than just an economic engine—it’s a cornerstone of our economy, history and way of life. © Freepik

Innovating for People and the Planet: The Scientific History of TNC

Science is the backbone of The Nature Conservancy’s mission to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. It provides the evidence base we need to set priorities, design effective strategies, and measure our impact. Science empowers us to address complex environmental challenges with solutions that are grounded in data, scalable across geographies, and rooted in the needs of local people and communities. 

From our origins in the Ecological Society of America to our evolution into a global conservation leader, science has always defined who we are. Today, more than 1,000 science staff across all 50 U.S. states and more than 80 countries and territories are advancing TNC’s mission through interdisciplinary research and collaboration. With expertise covering more than 60 disciplines, our scientists work hand-in-hand with partners and communities to create solutions for nature, climate, and people that are locally grounded and globally scalable.

At TNC, science is inclusive, collaborative, and focused on impact. Our teams integrate cutting-edge technologies like remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and bioacoustics with Indigenous and local knowledge to develop solutions that work in the real world. Whether advancing climate adaptation, marine spatial planning, sustainable agriculture, or natural climate solutions like agroforestry and reforestation, TNC science is designed to be used—informing decisions, guiding policy, and driving change at scale.

At The Nature Conservancy, science is more than a tool or a discovery. It’s how we turn knowledge into impact, all with the goal of creating a thriving future for life on Earth.

Where Science Meets Impact

At TNC, science isn’t just a tool, it’s a bridge to a better future for biodiversity, climate and communities.

Historical photo of three people in a field collecting data.
A scientist measuring a tree.
A researcher measures water quality on an oyster reef at eye level.
Jen Morris and Katharine Hayhoe on stage having a discussion.
Historical photo of three people in a field collecting data.

ORDWAY PRAIRIE: This preserve protects more than 800 acres of grasslands and woods that have been relatively undisturbed. © Wallace Dayton

A scientist measuring a tree.

Measuring trees: Conservation practitioners examine and measure trees in a wetland. © Mac Stone

A researcher measures water quality on an oyster reef at eye level.

Science-Based Solutions: A researcher measures water quality on an oyster reef. © Hannah Packman/TNC

Jen Morris and Katharine Hayhoe on stage having a discussion.

OCS Gathering Opening: TNC CEO Jen Morris and Chief Scientist Katharine Hayhoe having a fireside chat at the OCS Gathering in 2024 © TNC

Four people in a field taking notes about butterflies.
Connecting People to Nature Sacred Keepers Sustainability Lab interns monitor monarch butterflies in milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) patches along the Burnham Wildlife Corridor in Chicago, Illinois. © Laura Stoecker

About the One Conservancy Science Program at TNC

TNC’s success requires that we continue to invest in and grow the quality and consistency of our science across the organization. TNC’s One Conservancy Science Program (OCSP) integrates and connects our nearly 1,000 science staff across the globe to optimize science and innovation, amplify the power of our research, and build capacity and connections that accelerate us toward our 2030 goals. 

One Conservancy Science Program: By the Numbers

We provide the connectivity, training, resources and support needed to deliver state-of-the-art science to accelerate progress toward our 2030 goals.

  • Green icon of a microscope.

    1,000

    Science staff at TNC

  • Green icon of a research paper.

    374

    2024 publications authored or co-authored by TNC staff

  • Green icon of three people.

    60

    # of science disciplines represented

  • Green icon of a globe.

    80+

    We impact conservation in more than 80 countries and territories.

The One Conservancy Science Program invests in four key areas

Our vision is to create a sustainable and interconnected science network

Science in the Spotlight

Discover how science is shaping conservation, from innovative research to on-the-ground impact.

© Ariana Lindquist
View of wetland in New Zealand
Data Analysis The Nature Conservancy explores whether blue carbon credits can help fund coastal wetland restoration at the Robert Findlay Wildlife Reserve in New Zealand. © The Nature Conservancy
The sun over a body of water.
Dangermond Coastline A bird soars above the preserve as sun sets over the ocean at Dangermond Preserve. © Peter Floyd
Tree planting in Mantiqueira, Brazil.
NATURE BASED SOLUTIONS such as restoring and protecting ecosystems can provide more than one-third of the measures needed to limit global warming. Reforestation in Mantiqueira, Brazil. © Felipe Fitipaldi
Amazon river and shoreline view.
Amazon Rio Negro in the Amazon, Brazil. © Ben Duarte/TNC Photo Contest
View of a Southern live oak tree.
Southern Live Oak Quercus virginiana. © Petr/Adobestock
View of wetland in New Zealand
Data Analysis The Nature Conservancy explores whether blue carbon credits can help fund coastal wetland restoration at the Robert Findlay Wildlife Reserve in New Zealand. © The Nature Conservancy

1

New Zealand and Global Nature-Based Credits

A new analysis shows how New Zealand could tap into global nature‑based credit markets by scaling high‑integrity carbon and biodiversity projects. Coordinated action could attract private investment, support forest and wetland restoration, and deliver benefits for climate resilience, biodiversity, and local communities.

The sun over a body of water.
Dangermond Coastline A bird soars above the preserve as sun sets over the ocean at Dangermond Preserve. © Peter Floyd

2

Unliveable Earth

A new global study led by The Nature Conservancy finds that rising heat and humidity are making everyday activities increasingly unsafe, even for light tasks like walking or household chores. About 35% of the world’s population now lives in places where heat severely limits safe activity, with older adults especially affected. As the planet warms, climate change is transforming routine daily life into a growing public health risk worldwide.

Tree planting in Mantiqueira, Brazil.
NATURE BASED SOLUTIONS such as restoring and protecting ecosystems can provide more than one-third of the measures needed to limit global warming. Reforestation in Mantiqueira, Brazil. © Felipe Fitipaldi

3

Nature-Based Solutions for Health

A new brief highlights how nature‑based solutions can improve health outcomes by reducing disease risk, strengthening health systems, and addressing the environmental drivers of health inequities, while also protecting biodiversity. From cooling urban heat and improving water quality to supporting mental health and disaster resilience, these approaches offer a powerful, prevention‑focused pathway to healthier communities and a healthier planet.

Amazon river and shoreline view.
Amazon Rio Negro in the Amazon, Brazil. © Ben Duarte/TNC Photo Contest

4

Durable Rivers, Shared Stewardship

The Nature Conservancy’s work in the Ecuadorian Amazon advances a durable freshwater protection model that blends river‑scale science with Indigenous leadership. By partnering with Waorani and Kichwa communities to co‑design conservation frameworks, the approach protects river flow, water quality and connectivity while strengthening Indigenous governance and long‑term stewardship of vital Amazon waterways.

View of a Southern live oak tree.
Southern Live Oak Quercus virginiana. © Petr/Adobestock

5

Genomics‑Driven Conservation for California Oaks

Building on a partnership with UCLA, The Nature Conservancy is applying a climate‑smart conservation approach to California’s oak woodlands that merges genomic science with large‑scale restoration. By identifying oak populations best suited to future heat and drought, the collaboration guides targeted acorn planting to boost resilience across landscapes, protecting a foundational species that underpins biodiversity, carbon storage, and long‑term stewardship.

Our Science Works to Advance the 2030 Goals

  • A green circle with the words 3 billion in black text in the center.

    Avoid or sequester 3 billion metric tons of CO2 emissions annually

    Using the power of nature and strength of policy and markets to store carbon, support the renewable energy build-out and reduce emissions equivalent to nearly 10% of global emissions from fossil fuels. Learn about Natural Climate Solutions.

  • A green circle with the words 100 million in black text in the center.

    Help 100 million people at risk of climate-related emergencies

    Protecting and restoring the health of natural habitats—from mangroves and reefs to floodplains and forests—that help protect communities from storm surge, extreme rainfall, severe wildfires and sea level rise. How we're strengthening coastal resilience.

  • A teal circle with the words 4 billion in black text in the center.

    Conserve 4 billion hectares of ocean

    Making sure the oceans thrive through new and better-managed protected areas, global-scale sustainable fishing, innovative financing and positive policy changes to how the world governs the seas. Learn how climate-ready fisheries can restore ocean health.

  • An orange circle with the words 650 million in black text in the center.

    Conserve 650 million hectares of land

    Partnering with communities across the globe to restore & improve management of working lands, support the leadership of Indigenous peoples as land stewards, & conserve critical forests, grasslands and other habitats rich in carbon & biodiversity. Explore our conservation projects around the world.

  • A blue circle with the words 30 million in black text in the center.

    Conserve 30M hectares of lakes & wetlands, 1M kilometers of river systems

    Promoting innovative solutions and policies that improve the quality and amount of water available in freshwater ecosystems and to communities. Read more on our sustainable rivers projects.

  • A green circle with the words 45 million in black text in the center.

    Support 45 million people, partnering with local and Indigenous communities

    Partnering with Indigenous Peoples and other communities to learn from and support their leadership in stewarding the environment, securing rights to resources, improving economic opportunities and shaping their future. Learn how we partner with Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

4 people in a river with nets collecting samples.
One Conservancy Science Impact Report 2024

Learn more about the impact of science at TNC.

Download

Explore key science resources at TNC

Learn more about the science behind our conservation work. These key resources offer insights into the data, research and innovations that guide The Nature Conservancy’s global efforts to protect nature and people.

  • Person standing in front of a waterfell

    Conservation Gateway

    Conservation Gateway is The Nature Conservancy’s online hub for practical conservation knowledge, bringing together tools, research, reports, and proven strategies in one accessible platform. Explore Conservation Gateway

  • Two scientists sampling in a rocky riverbed.

    Science Catalyst Fund Impact Report

    The inaugural report of The Nature Conservancy’s 2030 Science Catalyst Fund spotlights how rapid-response research is accelerating science-based action across the globe. Check out the Inaugural Report Here

  • Two people kneeling together in a field observing plants.

    Council of External Science Advisors

    In late 2024, TNC established the Council of External Science Advisors (CESA) for the OCS program. The CESA ensures TNC's science aligns with the latest advancements, providing independent oversight and guidance on critical topics. Council of External Science Advisors

  • Five scientists in field gear working to examine clams.

    Scientists Powering Conservation

    Get to know the scientists driving conservation forward. Their biography pages offer a closer look at the people behind the research, restoration and innovation shaping our planet’s future. Our Scientists

  • The SNAPP logo.

    Science for Nature & People Partnership

    SNAPP is a global partnership that funds expert teams to create data-driven, scalable solutions linking nature conservation to human well-being, focusing on climate, food, water, oceans and social innovation. Learn More About SNAPP

  • Four people in a circle working to deploy an acoustic reader.

    Cool Green Science

    Cool Green Science shares how conservation science tackles climate change and biodiversity loss. Through field stories, expert insights and fascinating discoveries, it connects readers to the science behind protecting nature. Check out the blog here

  • A geospatial map.

    Geospatial Annual Report Digital Companion

    Discover the integral role of geospatial mapping technologies in prioritizing conservation science to achieve our goals and earn the best return on conservation investments around the world. About the Latest Report

  • A bowl of cacao harvested in Indonesia.

    Denise O’Leary and Kent Thiry Sustainability Fellowship

    The Denise O’Leary and Kent Thiry Sustainability Fellowship is a pioneering partnership between TNC and the Smithsonian Institution, designed to empower the next generation of scientific leaders in sustainability and planetary resilience. Learn More About the Fellowship

Read More

Young mangrove saplings shoot out of mud in Kenya.

Tackle Climate Change

Climate change isn’t a distant threat—it's happening now, and it’s our biggest problem. The urgency is real, but so are the solutions to stop global warming.

Parque Nacional Torres del Paine in Chile, showing sparkling waters of a bay and steep, snow-covered mountains in the distance.

Protect Ocean, Land & Fresh Water

We’re facing two existential crises: climate change and rapid biodiversity loss. Reversing these crises requires protecting and sustainably managing our ocean, land and fresh water.

Woman carrying bag of tea leaves on her head in a farm field.

Provide Food & Water

The Nature Conservancy is fostering innovations in technology, collaborating with communities to use resources more efficiently and promoting policies that enable sustainability.