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An introduction to decision science for conservation
Victoria Hemming1, Abbey E Camaclang1, Megan S Adams1
1Conservation Decisions Lab, Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Summary
Decision science offers practical frameworks and tools to aid complex biodiversity conservation decisions. This study clarifies terminology and methods, making decision science accessible for conservation planning and problem-solving.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Conservation Biology
- Decision Science
Background:
- Biodiversity conservation decisions are complex, involving multiple objectives, resource limitations, and uncertainty.
- Decision science provides theoretical frameworks and practical tools for making difficult choices.
- Barriers to decision science adoption in conservation include lack of training, unclear terminology, and perceived complexity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance conceptual clarity and practical application of decision science in conservation.
- To address barriers hindering the uptake of decision science by conservation practitioners.
- To provide guidance on selecting and applying decision science tools and frameworks.
Main Methods:
- Clarified common decision science terminology (e.g., decision analysis, structured decision-making).
- Emphasized a rapid-prototyping approach for decision analysis components (problem definition, objectives, alternatives, consequences, trade-offs).
- Summarized and contextualized decision-support tools and frameworks for conservation applications.
Main Results:
- Decision science application can be straightforward, starting with structured decision analysis.
- Decision-support tools offer clarity, while frameworks aid navigation of complex conservation decisions.
- Specific tools and frameworks are recommended based on decision analysis steps and conservation contexts.
Conclusions:
- Decision science offers a structured approach to improve biodiversity conservation decision-making.
- Understanding decision science terminology and tools lowers barriers to its application.
- This work facilitates the integration of decision science into conservation practice and research.
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