Articles tagged with Conservation Policies
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A study analyzing online seizure records found over 300 seizures of dried seahorses in 62 countries, with most occurring in transit or destination countries. The illicit trade is estimated to be worth CAD$29 million over 10 years, and emerging routes involve Europe and Latin America.
A new book calls for a transition to a nature-positive world, valuing the living natural world in economic decision-making. The authors propose shifting from GDP to Gross Ecosystem Product, and encourage businesses to contribute to a nature-positive economy now.
A new study reveals how proactive salmon conservation in the North Pacific can protect biodiversity and advance global conservation goals. The stronghold strategy aims to proactively protect iconic salmon systems that sustain healthy watersheds, safeguarding food security and mitigating climate change.
African Elephants have an extraordinary ability to plan their journeys based on energy costs and resource availability, according to a new study published in the Journal of Animal Ecology. The research team used GPS tracking data from 157 elephants over a 22-year period to analyze their movement decisions and habitat selection.
A new study from Colorado State University found that fortified corrals can reduce livestock losses due to predator attacks on nearby carnivores. The study demonstrated a beneficial spillover effect where households neighboring those with chain-link corrals also reported fewer attacks on their livestock.
Researchers used DNA technology to confirm feral cats as primary predators responsible for native animal deaths at two conservation sites in South Australia. DNA analysis revealed that feral cats were culprits in killing of native animals, with 96% of confirmed kills determined by DNA analysis.
A new study from the University of Surrey, Accor, and Booking.com has identified four key ways to engage guests in sustainable travel. The report highlights the importance of clear sustainability messaging, balancing appeals to pleasure and comfort, empowering guests, and helping them act responsibly while away.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new method for mapping poverty using national surveys, big data, and machine learning. The approach translates Earth observation data into actionable terms for policymakers, providing more accurate estimates of poverty lines.
A new machine-learning approach to mapping poverty has been developed by Cornell University researchers, aiming to help policymakers and NGOs better identify the poorest populations in poor countries. The approach uses national surveys and Earth observation data to create actionable terms for policymakers, outperforming previous methods.
A landmark global study has found that two-thirds of species are losing genetic diversity, but conservation efforts are helping to reverse this trend. The study, published in Nature, highlights the importance of initiatives such as habitat restoration, animal translocations, and population control.
The survey reveals critical low lion numbers in Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley National Parks, while hyena populations show resilience across four major protected areas. Advanced spatial capture-recapture methods set a new standard for wildlife monitoring in Africa.
A new study led by the University of Washington found that only about 7% of areas at highest risk for whale-ship collisions have any measures in place. The team identified high-risk regions, including coastal areas along the Mediterranean, Americas, southern Africa, and parts of Asia, where whales and ships are most likely to meet.
A team of researchers analyzed historical marking data from the Discovery Marking Program to investigate Antarctic blue whale population structure. They found frequent mixing among ocean basins, indicating a single circumpolar population. This study provides valuable insights into the conservation of this endangered species.
Researchers confirm beehive fences as highly effective in reducing human-elephant conflict, deterring 76-86.3% of elephants from raiding crops during peak seasons. However, ongoing habitat degradation and droughts may compromise the long-term effectiveness of this nature-based solution.
The study found that uneven distribution of resources gives some individuals more access to play than others. Wildlife is a major draw for nature-based tourism, but human recreation has unintended consequences for biodiversity. To coexist with wildlife, it's essential to follow common-sense rules and minimize disturbance.
Research reveals that informing tourists about climate change does not harm their experience and can encourage sustainable actions. Eighty percent of participants wanted more information on climate change to help, highlighting an opportunity for tourism operators to enhance visitor experiences while advancing climate action.
A new study reveals disturbing practices in South Africa's captive lion industry, including evading detection and animal welfare violations. The research calls for the government to implement a comprehensive plan to transition away from current practices and end the industry.
A study by University of California - Santa Barbara researchers found that NGO park management improves measures for wildlife, including reducing elephant poaching and increasing tourism. However, it also increases the risk of armed groups targeting civilians in protected areas, particularly in conflict zones.