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Conservation and the Global Infrastructure Tsunami: Disclose, Debate, Delay!
1Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science, and College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia.
Trends in Ecology & Evolution
|June 19, 2018
Summary
Infrastructure development threatens biodiversity and ecosystems globally. Scientists can influence the global infrastructure debate by employing time-critical tactics to protect nature and mitigate ecological impacts.
Area of Science:
- Conservation Biology
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
Background:
- Growing infrastructure development poses significant threats to global biodiversity and ecosystem integrity.
- The expansion of roads and other infrastructure is a primary driver of habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss.
- Addressing this crisis requires confronting misconceptions and acknowledging inherent trade-offs in conservation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify actionable tactics for scientists to effectively inform and influence the global infrastructure debate.
- To provide guidance on navigating complex trade-offs associated with infrastructure development and conservation.
- To highlight the urgency of scientific engagement in policy-making for biodiversity protection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current research on infrastructure impacts on biodiversity.
- Analysis of existing scientific communication strategies in environmental policy.
- Identification of key challenges and opportunities for scientists in influencing infrastructure planning.
Main Results:
- Several time-critical tactics are proposed for scientists to enhance their impact.
- Effective communication strategies involve translating complex ecological data for policymakers and the public.
- Overcoming misconceptions about ecological impacts and development needs is crucial for progress.
Conclusions:
- Scientists must proactively engage in the global infrastructure debate to protect biodiversity.
- Strategic communication and policy influence are essential to mitigate the negative ecological consequences of infrastructure.
- Urgent action and interdisciplinary collaboration are needed to reconcile development with nature conservation.
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