Half of Earth ‘relatively intact’ and should be protected from human encroachment, researchers say

‘Slim window’ to protect what is left of the natural world, study warns

Boreal forests and the Tundra are among the largest areas least impacted by humans (Getty)

Around half of the ice-free land on our planet remains relatively unscathed by humans, according to a new study calling for greater protection for what is left of the natural world.

The research is based on four recent global mapping projects which detail the conversion of natural lands into space used by humans.

The colossal impacts of our species on the planet include our cities, arable farmland, and areas intensively ranched or mined.