From science to impact: Conserving ecological connectivity in large conservation landscapes

Area of Science:

• Conservation Science
• Landscape Ecology
• Ecosystem Services

Background:

• Large-scale conservation requires integrating ecological, socioeconomic, and cultural factors.
• Connectivity conservation is crucial for improving landscape health and biodiversity.
• Human dependence on ecosystem services necessitates effective conservation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a theory of change (ToC) for connectivity conservation in large landscapes.
• To assess progress and challenges in global connectivity conservation efforts.
• To identify opportunities for enhancing large-scale conservation initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Review of connectivity conservation efforts across four continents.
• Analysis of large landscapes spanning diverse ecological and socioeconomic gradients.
• Evaluation of data richness used for connectivity assessment and action targeting.

Main Results:

• Substantial but variable progress observed in connectivity conservation efforts globally.
• Identified specific challenges hindering the achievement of conservation goals.
• Highlighted the role of public and private sectors in advancing conservation.

Conclusions:

• Integrating diverse factors is key to successful large-scale connectivity conservation.
• Addressing identified challenges can leverage conservation potential worldwide.
• Improving gene flow and reducing landscape isolation are critical outcomes.