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Published on: February 11, 2020
The need for evidence-based conservation
William J Sutherland1, Andrew S Pullin, Paul M Dolman
1Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation, School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK NR4 7TJ. w.sutherland@uea.ac.uk
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|May 17, 2006
Summary
Conservation efforts often rely on anecdotes, not evidence. A new web-based database format is proposed to systematically review information and guide practitioners for better conservation outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Conservation Science
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Information Management
Background:
- Current conservation practices frequently lack systematic evidence appraisal.
- Reliance on anecdote and myth hinders effective conservation outcomes.
- There is a significant gap in accessible, evidence-based guidance for conservation practitioners.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the problem of evidence-based decision-making in conservation.
- To advocate for a shift from anecdotal to systematic approaches in conservation.
- To propose a novel solution for delivering accessible conservation information.
Main Methods:
- Critical review of current conservation practice limitations.
- Conceptualization of a structured approach for information synthesis.
- Design of a web-based database format for practitioner use.
Main Results:
- Identified a critical need for evidence-based mechanisms in conservation.
- Proposed a web-based database as a viable solution for information dissemination.
- Outlined a format for organizing and accessing conservation evidence.
Conclusions:
- Rethinking conservation operations is essential for improved effectiveness.
- Systematic appraisal of evidence must replace anecdotal approaches.
- Web-based databases can provide crucial, accessible information for conservation practitioners.
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