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A horizon scan of global conservation issues for 2014
William J Sutherland1, Rosalind Aveling2, Thomas M Brooks3
1Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, Cambridge University, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK.
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|December 17, 2013
Summary
This study identifies 15 emerging topics that could impact biodiversity conservation. These include financial risks from carbon markets and novel threats like snake fungal disease, requiring proactive conservation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Conservation Biology
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
Background:
- Annual horizon-scanning exercises are crucial for anticipating future challenges.
- Biological diversity faces numerous evolving threats, some not yet widely recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and present emerging topics that may significantly impact biological diversity conservation.
- To inform conservation efforts by highlighting underconsidered future issues.
Main Methods:
- An iterative, Delphi-like process involving professional horizon scanners, researchers, practitioners, and a journalist.
- Identification of 15 distinct topics through expert consensus.
Main Results:
- Fifteen potential future issues affecting biodiversity conservation were identified.
- Topics range from economic impacts (carbon market financial crash) to biological threats (macroalgal cultivation, invasive species control, amphibian probiotics, snake fungal disease).
Conclusions:
- Proactive identification of emerging threats is essential for effective biodiversity conservation.
- The identified topics represent critical areas for future research and policy development in conservation science.
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