Harnessing physiological research for smarter environmental policy

Integrating physiological research into environmental policy is crucial for addressing the complex challenges faced by ecosystems. Despite their potential, physiological insights are often underutilised in policy and management decisions, leading to missed opportunities for more targeted and effective conservation strategies. This Perspective explores the role and integration of physiological research within environmental policy. We discuss successful case studies where physiological data have informed policy, as well as the barriers that hinder broader recognition and application of this research. Key challenges include the limited awareness of physiological findings among policymakers, the difficulties in translating complex scientific data into actionable policy, and the gap between physiological studies and ecological relevance. To bridge these gaps, we propose strategies for making physiological research more accessible and impactful, such as fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, enhancing science communication and aligning research with policy needs. We conclude with a call to action for researchers, institutions, policymakers and Indigenous communities - especially Traditional Custodians - to collaborate more closely, advocating for the inclusion of physiological expertise in advisory panels and the development of strategies to better incorporate physiological research into environmental policy. By embracing the insights provided by conservation physiology, we can develop more informed and effective policies that enhance the resilience of ecosystems in the face of rapid environmental change.