Mainstreaming human and large carnivore coexistence through institutional collaboration.

Area of Science:

• Conservation Science
• Sustainability Science
• Human-Wildlife Conflict Studies

Background:

• Human-dominated landscapes (HDLs) present significant challenges for large carnivore conservation and human coexistence.
• Current governance and academic approaches are often sectoral, hindering effective solutions.
• Global societies face increasing pressure to reconcile human activities with large carnivore presence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for academia's proactive role in facilitating cross-sectoral cooperation for human-large carnivore coexistence in HDLs.
• To propose integrating sustainability sciences and transdisciplinary methods within academic institutions.
• To encourage the development of novel institutional structures for effective HDL management.

Main Methods:

• Drawing lessons from case studies in Europe, Asia, and South America with high large carnivore densities.
• Analyzing the application of disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary research approaches.
• Examining the potential for institutional transformation and stakeholder engagement.

Main Results:

• Academia needs to adopt sustainability science principles and create spaces for transdisciplinary projects.
• Research approaches must be critically reflected upon to leverage institutional change.
• Engaging diverse institutions and stakeholders is crucial for creating adaptive governance structures.

Conclusions:

• Mainstreaming human-large carnivore coexistence in HDLs requires cooperative thinking and action.
• Academia can drive this shift by fostering transdisciplinary collaboration and innovative institutional frameworks.
• Successful coexistence offers substantial benefits for both people and biodiversity.