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Published on: April 18, 2025
A horizon scan of global conservation issues for 2015
William J Sutherland1, Mick Clout2, Michael Depledge3
1Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, Cambridge University, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK.
This sixth annual horizon scan identifies 15 emerging global environmental phenomena. These topics, including new insecticides and Antarctic ecosystems, require further understanding for their potential impacts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Annual horizon scans identify emerging global environmental phenomena.
- Many significant environmental issues are not widely understood.
- Early identification is crucial for proactive environmental management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify phenomena with substantial potential effects on the global environment.
- To highlight topics that are not widely known or well understood.
- To inform future research and policy regarding emerging environmental challenges.
Main Methods:
- An iterative, Delphi-like process was employed.
- A diverse group of experts, including professional horizon scanners, researchers, practitioners, and a journalist, participated.
- 15 distinct topics were identified through expert consensus.
Main Results:
- Fifteen emerging phenomena with potential global environmental impacts were identified.
- Examples include a novel class of insecticide compounds.
- Other identified topics include the legalization of recreational drugs and new ecosystems emerging from Antarctic ice retreat.
Conclusions:
- The identified phenomena represent critical areas for future research and monitoring.
- Proactive engagement with these emerging issues is necessary to mitigate potential negative environmental consequences.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for effective horizon scanning and environmental foresight.
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