Relocating built-up land for biodiversity conservation in an uncertain future

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• Urban Planning

Background:

• Land use change, particularly urban development, is a primary driver of habitat loss and biodiversity decline.
• The irreversible nature of urban development has historically limited exploration of built-up land relocation for conservation.
• Effective environmental management requires innovative strategies to mitigate anthropogenic impacts on wildlife.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the impact of built-up land relocation on biodiversity conservation in Shanghai.
• To explore how restoration programs can influence future land change and biodiversity outcomes.
• To assess the potential of built-up land relocation as a conservation tool.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of recent built-up land restoration in Shanghai (2017-2020).
• Simulation modeling to predict future land change trajectories under different scenarios.
• Species extinction risk assessment for amphibians, mammals, and reptiles.

Main Results:

• 187.78 km² of built-up land in Shanghai was restored to natural habitat.
• Built-up land relocation scenarios showed reduced habitat loss and improved habitat quality.
• Relocation scenarios predicted more suitable species habitat ranges and decreased extinction risks for mammals and reptiles.

Conclusions:

• Built-up land relocation is a viable strategy for enhancing biodiversity conservation.
• Integrating conservation planning before development is crucial for sustainable environmental management.
• While beneficial, relocation strategies require tailored approaches for different species groups, like amphibians.