Investigating the Correlation between GDP per capita and Changes in Protected Area size in the context of the EU Green Deal

The Earth's climate has continuously evolved over the historical ages, leading to ecosystems that are unpredictable and unstable. The current state of the global environment presents an alarming situation, characterized by increasingly extreme climate changes and natural phenomena capable of altering ecosystems and delivering disruption on their path. In order to mitigate its negative impact on human health, this escalating situation calls for urgent action. Climate change transcend borders and therefore it becomes imperative to install an international cooperation to address the challenges effectively. To combat climate change and to transit a net-zero emissions world, the implementation of such measures must be overseen by international organizations. In order to reach such an ambitious objective, collaborative efforts from all countries are essential to foster a low-carbon economy and accelerate the development of green technologies and innovations. Important global climate accords, such as the Paris Agreement, have been crucial in defining ambitious emissions reduction objectives and providing a common method for states to make public their pledges to cut emissions while enhancing climate resilience [1]. Through this agreement, the European Union (EU) has assumed the lead in promoting a sustainable model of society that aims to make Europe the first continent with a net-zero economy in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. Key European policies reflect this commitment, such as the Europe 2020 Strategy, which seeks smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth, and the 2030 Climate Target Plan, which aims to increase the EU's ambitions in achieving climate neutrality. The EU Green Deal was established as the primary initiative of the EU to address environmental concerns, composed as a comprehensive plan for long-term sustainability that aims to improve environmental management, slow the decline of natural habitats in Europe, and achieve climate neutrality. The Green Deal's biodiversity component, in particular, takes a strong stance in addressing the urgent need for protecting and restoring nature. This section of the Green Deal emphasizes preventing biodiversity loss, supporting sustainable land use, and protecting vulnerable species and habitats in light of the growing challenges to biodiversity and ecosystems.