Conservation Policies
Articles tagged with Conservation Policies
Support local people to protect world’s nature, new report urges, as deadline for global conservation target looms
A new report by University of Cambridge researchers highlights the human context of conservation efforts, finding that protecting 30% of the world's land and seas by 2030 will impact nearly half of the global population. The team suggests substantial investment and local involvement are crucial for successful implementation.
UBC researchers find Indigenous lands can outperform protected areas on conservation
A new study by UBC researchers found that Indigenous lands consistently protect forests, biodiversity, and carbon stores at levels equal to or greater than government-designated protected areas. The study highlights the importance of securing formal land rights for Indigenous Peoples and funding and resourcing Indigenous stewardship.
Integrated land planning is necessary to meet climate, food and biodiversity goals
An international team of researchers found that coordinated land-use planning can reduce species impact by 15% and carbon loss by 19%. Strategic planning can enable progress toward global biodiversity, climate, and sustainable development goals simultaneously.
More people are eating wild meat across Central Africa, raising urgency for sustainable wildlife management
A study in Nature reveals a sharp increase in wild meat consumption across Central Africa, driven by urban populations. The total annual biomass of wild meat consumed has increased from 0.73 million tonnes in 2000 to 1.10 million tonnes in 2022.
Restored ecosystems could help defend borders, study suggests
Researchers propose using terrain to deter conflict while delivering environmental benefits through restored forests, wetlands, and peatlands. These interventions support carbon storage, flood mitigation, and biodiversity recovery, acting as a form of deterrence by denial.
New research shows habitat restoration projects have paid off for Forest Park in St. Louis
A recent study published in Ecological Applications found that habitat restoration efforts in Forest Park have increased native bird diversity, with increases mostly seen in native species. The research also highlights the importance of access to water and varied habitats for boosting biodiversity.
Researchers warn against securitized response to global biodiversity loss
Researchers warn that a securitized response to global biodiversity loss could lead to poorly targeted actions and policy. They highlight concerns over migration claims and call for evidence-based, non-securitised policy.
Rethinking Europe’s nature reserves
Researchers propose incorporating local knowledge into nature conservation through a biocultural approach. This involves collaborating with local people, considering traditional land-use practices and their impact on protected areas.
Could ultrasound help save hedgehogs?
A new study reveals that hedgehogs can hear high-frequency ultrasound, up to 85 kHz, which could be used to design sound repellents for cars to deter them from roads. The findings suggest a potential solution to reduce hedgehog deaths, which are a major cause of road traffic accidents.
Carbon markets risk penalizing First Nations stewardship
A coalition of experts warns that carbon markets may be penalizing First Nations' long-term stewardship due to their 'additionality' requirements. The definition of 'additionality' often rewards restoration on degraded land, excluding protected ecosystems and traditional owners' custodianship.
Dense, dark forests in Europe are a modern phenomenon
A new comprehensive study reveals that modern afforestation in Europe is contrary to the continent's long-term ecological trajectory. The study suggests that dense forests are a recent phenomenon and that current reforestation practices are on the wrong track, harming biodiversity.
Framework for assessing national contributions towards the 30% protection target has been internationally peer-reviewed
A new science-based operational framework can help countries evaluate their progress towards the 30/10 biodiversity target. The framework reveals that only 2% of land and 2% of sea contribute to the target, while reported figures are often overestimated.
The wild can be ‘death trap’ for rescued animals
A new study published in Global Ecology and Conservation found that released animals, like Bengal slow lorises, are at risk of being attacked by territorial peers. Only two out of nine released animals survived, with the others dying due to fatal attacks.
Why letting museum visitors smell horse manure might be good for conservation
A new study from Nagoya University and Gifu University found that multisensory museum experiences can engage visitors with culturally significant heritage. By incorporating sensory elements like smell and touch, visitors can form personal connections to the artifacts, leading to deeper engagement and conservation efforts.
Global analysis of wildlife decline warns conservation action must be coordinated across multiple threats
A new study found that addressing multiple threats simultaneously is crucial for halting biodiversity loss, with single-threat interventions unlikely to reverse global decline trends. Mitigating multiple threats together leads to stable or recovering vertebrate populations.
Removing southern African fences may help wildlife, boost economy
A new study suggests that strategically removing sections of fencing in southern Africa could make both livestock and wildlife safer. The researchers found that the overall risk estimates of diseases were generally low, and removing fences may not increase the risk of pathogens crossing over.
Are returning Pumas putting Patagonian Penguins at risk? New study reveals the likelihood
A new study reveals that more than 7,000 adult Magellanic penguins were killed by pumas in just four years, posing a significant threat to the penguin population. The research suggests that high puma predation rates could exacerbate reproductive decline and juvenile mortality, ultimately putting the colony at risk of extinction.
Can international laws save the ocean? Activists say direct action is needed too.
The High Seas Treaty has been ratified by 61 states, but authors of a new book argue that international laws are insufficient to protect the ocean. Direct action, such as interfering with whaling operations or cutting fishing nets, is necessary due to lack of global enforcement.
Science solves South Australia’s koala dilemma
A study led by Dr. Frédérik Saltré suggests that sterilizing 22% of adult females annually could stabilize the population at an estimated cost of $34 million over 25 years. This approach prioritizes both animal welfare and ecosystem health, offering a humane solution to the unsustainable koala numbers.
New study reveals major gaps in global forest maps
A new study from the University of Notre Dame found that satellite-derived forest maps often disagree, creating uncertainty for conservation, climate, and development policies. The discrepancies can be as high as a factor of 10, affecting millions of hectares and human lives.
Overlooked decline in grazing livestock brings risks and opportunities
A new global study finds that nearly half of livestock production occurs in areas with destocking, a process that poses new ecological and land management challenges. Destocking can increase wildfire risk and biodiversity decline, but also enables ecosystems to capture more atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Climate policies can backfire by eroding “green” values, study finds
A study published in Nature Sustainability finds that climate policies targeting lifestyle changes can erode existing 'green' values, leading to unintended negative effects. Researchers surveyed over 3,000 Germans and found a 52% greater negative response to climate mandates than COVID-19 mandates.
Research news from the Ecological Society of America
Recent research articles explore innovative methods for rehabilitating coral reefs, new observations of masquerading behavior in deep-sea squids, the rapid expansion of Sphagnum peat patches across Alaska's North Slope, trade-offs between protected areas and sustainable development goals, and a surprising first-time observation of moth...
New research from Montana State economist shows how wetland restoration can benefit local economies
A Montana State University economist's research found that wetland restoration through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program can reduce ammonia and nitrogen concentrations in local waterways, resulting in decreased costs for communities. This can lead to tangible savings of up to $17,000 per year in smaller rural towns.
Connection and protection boost health in coral reefs
A new study by the University of Oxford and WCS reveals that connections between coral reefs can stabilize reef health, reducing the risk of collapse. By simulating future reef conditions under different management scenarios, researchers found that a dual approach improving land and sea conditions provides the best outcomes for reefs.
Social justice should not be tokenistic but at the heart of global restoration efforts
Researchers from the University of East Anglia argue that placing social justice at the heart of global restoration initiatives is vital for success. The study found that ecological targets should be aligned with local social, economic, and cultural ones to ensure holistic and long-term thinking.
Illinois study finds cover crop adoption doubles in farm demonstration network
A new Illinois study reveals that investing in farm demonstration networks can significantly increase the adoption of cover crops, which improve soil health and water quality. The study found a 50% increase in cover crop adoption within four years after implementation, with greater increases observed near demonstration farms.
Unbee-lievable: scientists trial unique solution for human-elephant conflict
A new study in Botswana explores the effectiveness of bee-sound barriers in deterring elephants from raiding crops. While results show a positive reaction from some elephants, differences in response rates between Botswana and other countries suggest context-specific factors are at play.
New research highlights the need for region-responsive conservation planning over universal frameworks
A new study reveals regional vulnerability of plant-pollinator networks to climate change, emphasizing the need for tailored conservation approaches. Tailored strategies can enhance biodiversity protection in tropical regions, but may offer minimal benefit in temperate zones.
Neural network helps detect gunshots from illegal rainforest poaching
A new neural network developed by Naveen Dhar can filter out false positives in gunshot detectors, providing accurate alerts for on-the-ground intervention. The system uses a web of autonomous recording units and a central hub to analyze audio data and pinpoint the location of gunshots.
November research news from the Ecological Society of America
Researchers explored the impact of urbanization on pollinators, found that trees' root systems shift with age, and discovered sea urchin 'halos' as indicators of ecosystem vulnerability. The studies highlight the need for tailored conservation strategies to address regional ecological challenges.
Drones: An ally in the sky to help save elephants!
Researchers found that elephants can learn to ignore drones within minutes of exposure, opening a new window into their behavior and social interactions. The study's results suggest potential for drones as a cost-effective observation platform in elephant conservation.
The road ahead: Why conserving the invisible 99% of life is fundamental to planetary health
A new paper outlines a global coalition dedicated to conserving microbial biodiversity, which accounts for 99% of life on Earth. The Microbial Conservation Specialist Group will develop Red List-compatible metrics, pilot restoration projects, and promote public awareness to ensure microbes are recognized as essential to planetary health.
Island reptiles face extinction before they are even studied, warns global review
A new study reveals that island reptiles are more threatened with extinction than mainland species, yet remain largely ignored by researchers. The study found that 30% of island-dwelling reptiles are threatened, while only 6.7% of reptile-focused research publications have studied them.
Lisbon to host world’s largest conference on ecosystem restoration in 2027, led by researcher from the Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon
The University of Lisbon will host the world's largest conference on ecosystem restoration in 2027, bringing together researchers, policymakers, and industry experts. The event aims to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing on restoring ecosystems, particularly in Portugal, a country with rich ecological diversity.
How the arts and science can jointly protect nature
A new study reveals that collaborations between conservationists and artists can generate new knowledge, attract funding, and catalyze behavioral change. By working together, artists and conservationists can co-create ideas, develop more effective solutions, and shape public attitudes towards nature.
Study maps priority areas to reduce macaw deaths from electric shock
A study has identified priority areas to reduce macaw deaths from electrocution in Brazil. Modifying 10% of high-risk poles could prevent 80% of these deaths, according to the research.
Tool reveals how your dinner affects the risk of 30,875 species of land-dwelling animal going extinct
Researchers developed a tool to measure food production's impact on species survival, finding that eating beef and lamb has the biggest effect on extinctions. Switching to vegetarian diets could halve biodiversity impact in the UK.
Farmed totoaba could curb poaching
Researchers find that farmed totoaba could alleviate poaching pressures by establishing a regulated trade. The study suggests that a market-based solution may be more effective than a regulatory approach in curbing poaching. A $6 million subsidy program could make farming cheaper and prevent further decline of the wild population.
Project to ‘freeze’ decline of iconic butterfly
Researchers investigate cryopreservation as a tool for conservation, using the European subspecies of the Swallowtail to assess its viability. If effective, it could support long-term strategies like breeding programs and reintroduction efforts.
New study reveals major trade-offs in global nature conservation strategies
A new study by researchers at the University of Helsinki compares two commonly used approaches to conservation planning, finding that the flexible approach provides higher habitat protection but with uneven distribution and minimum protection levels not guaranteed. In contrast, the target-based approach ensures all species meet their m...
Community management effectively protects millions of hectares of Amazonian forest
Research reveals community management effectively protects vast areas of Amazonian forest, safeguarding biodiversity and supporting local communities. Community-led conservation efforts are crucial for long-term sustainability, but require recognition and financial support.
Biological ‘moonshot’ accelerates efforts to genetically map life on Earth
The Earth BioGenome Project aims to create a digital library of DNA sequences to preserve and protect life on Earth. With over 2,200 scientists in 88 countries, the project is making discoveries that could help assure food security and advance medicine.
Global map shows where ocean plastics pose greatest threats
A global assessment reveals that ocean plastics pose ecological risks in areas with dense marine life and pollutants, even in waters with modest plastic levels. The study identifies high-risk zones, including the North Pacific and North Atlantic oceans, where coordinated efforts can substantially lessen threats.
Global review identifies opportunities to improve monitoring of juvenile fish habitats
A global review highlights the need for better tools to understand juvenile fish habitats, which are facing increased pressure from various factors. The study recommends incorporating metrics like growth, survival, and contribution rates to assess habitat quality.
Turning biodiversity upside down: Conservation maps miss fungal hotspots by focusing on plants
A new analysis found that diversity hotspots of mycorrhizal fungi overlapped with plant diversity hotspots in only 8.8% and 1.5% of cases, respectively. The study suggests that prioritizing conservation based on aboveground diversity fails to capture diverse belowground regions.
Micro refugia could be key to survival of insect populations
A review paper suggests microclimates could offset negative impacts of extreme weather on insects. The authors argue that current macroclimate models are not viable for predicting impacts on insect populations.
Animals in national parks remained wary of human footprint during 2020 COVID shutdown
A study analyzing data from 10 species at 14 national parks found that animals avoid human infrastructure like roads, trails, and buildings. However, responses varied across populations, species, and individual animals, with some adapted to human presence.
Media–public disconnect on wild meat narratives in central Africa during COVID-19
A new study reveals a disconnect between media and public perceptions on the risks of consuming wild meat in Central Africa during COVID-19. Researchers found that people's perceptions were more influenced by their personal experience, with domesticated red meat viewed as the riskiest protein source for disease.
SPUN launches Underground Atlas: First global map of fungal biodiversity reveals 90% conservation gap
The SPUN Underground Atlas reveals that over 90% of mycorrhizal biodiversity hotspots lie outside protected areas, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts. The digital map provides insights into fungal diversity and environmental factors, enabling predictions for previously unmapped regions.
Gene editing offers transformative solution to saving endangered species
A team of scientists proposes using gene editing to restore lost genetic diversity in endangered species, enabling them to adapt to future environmental changes. The approach could complement traditional conservation methods and attract new investors and expertise.
Study reveals a plastic ‘death trap’ in birds’ nests
A recent study reveals that discarded plastic materials are a significant hazard to young birds, causing entanglements that lead to deaths. The study found that soft plastics and synthetic ropes were the most prevalent materials in bird nests, with baler twine accounting for 63% of entanglements.
Five steps to successful nature restoration
The EU-wide requirement emphasizes five key steps for successful nature restoration: clear communication, agreed targets, coordinated measures, supportive frameworks, and attractive incentives. Effective implementation is crucial to achieving long-term biodiversity goals and mitigating climate change.
How lakes connect to groundwater critical for resilience to climate change, research finds
New research reveals that lakes relying on groundwater connections maintain stable water levels and buffer climate change impacts. Shallow lakes are vulnerable to rising temperatures and reduced rainfall due to high evaporation rates.
Restoring kelp forests by culling sea urchins makes financial and ecological sense: study
A new study led by RMIT University found that restoring southern Australian reefs from urchin barrens is feasible and beneficial for improved water quality, fisheries, and carbon sequestration. Economic modelling showed an AU$50 million investment would return up to AU$92 million in economic benefits.
Illegal shark product trade evident in Australia and New Zealand
A University of Adelaide study has revealed clear patterns in the flow of shark products between Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand. The research highlights Asia as the primary source of origin for seized products, particularly fin products, which are used in shark fin soup.
Study finds ethical justification to eradicate certain harmful species
Researchers argue that deliberate full extinction might be acceptable in rare cases, but only with careful consideration of ecological and moral implications. The study calls for robust ethical safeguards and inclusive decision-making frameworks to guide the use of genetic modification technologies.
Top scientists call for permanent ban on high seas exploitation
A group of top scientists, including Professor Callum Roberts and Professor Johan Rockström, are calling for a permanent ban on extractive activities in international waters. The authors argue that stopping all extractive activity would prevent irreversible damage to the climate, marine biodiversity, and ocean equity.
Smartphones reveal hidden impacts of people on wildlife
Researchers used anonymized GPS data from smartphones to monitor how wildlife reacts to people, highlighting the potential of human mobility data in tracking human-wildlife conflicts. The study's findings can inform conservation planning, help protect animals and wild spaces, and ensure that recreational activities are done responsibly.