Protected Planet API

A simple API to access

world's protected areas

Important Database Merger Announcement

From 1st November 2025, the World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA) and World Database on Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (WD-OECM) will be merged into one database. This is to streamline data management processes and simplify how external users access the two datasets, allowing them to identify all reported protected areas and OECMs using a single dataset. Users will be able to easily differentiate between PA and OECM data and filter based on types of sites relevant to their work.

There are some important associated changes that will affect how data users interpret and analyse the data. We have also taken the opportunity to change some field names for clarity and to improve the data we provide by adding and removing some fields. All changes are outlined in this document: http://wcmc.io/WDPA_changes_2025

To ensure a smooth transition, v3 of the API will not change and will therefore carry on displaying the old field names. A v4 of the API will be created to reflect the changes outlined above. v4 will be available from the 1st November 2025, while v3 will be taken down on 1st May 2026 to allow users time to switch to the new version.

Are you sure you need the API? Please consider using other formats (Shapefile, CSV, GDB) we provide on Protected Planet.

If you are unsure about the API capabilities, please visit the documentation.

The API is not available for commercial use. Our definition of commercial use includes any use by or for a commercial entity, whether revenue-generating or not, or any use that generates revenue for any type of entity. To access the data for uses of these types please visit the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool.