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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jan 8, 2026

Field Collection and Laboratory Maintenance of Canopy-Forming Giant Kelp to Facilitate Restoration

Field Collection and Laboratory Maintenance of Canopy-Forming Giant Kelp to Facilitate Restoration

Published on: June 7, 2024

An ecology fit for a crisis.

Kevin J Gaston¹, Nathalie Pettorelli²

¹Environment & Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, UK.

Trends in Ecology & Evolution

|December 18, 2025

Summary

Ecology must adopt an emergency footing to address the ecological crisis. Shifting research to mission-oriented goals can yield better planetary outcomes and benefits for the scientific community.

Keywords:

ecology mission-oriented science objectives polycrisis prioritisation

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Area of Science:

Ecology
Environmental Science
Conservation Biology

Background:

The planet faces an ecological crisis characterized by depauperated natural systems and declining biodiversity.
Environmental tipping points are being approached or crossed, demanding urgent action.
Current resources allocated to addressing these challenges are insufficient.

Purpose of the Study:

To argue for placing the discipline of ecology on an emergency footing.
To address the limitations of current ecological research in the face of global environmental challenges.
To explore the potential benefits of a mission-oriented approach in ecology.

Main Methods:

This study presents a conceptual argument, synthesizing existing knowledge and perspectives within ecology.
It critically evaluates counterarguments against a mission-oriented approach in scientific research.
It proposes a shift in research priorities towards addressing pressing environmental issues.

Main Results:

Arguments against a mission-oriented ecology are deemed uncompelling.
A shift towards mission-relevant research can lead to improved planetary outcomes.
Potential benefits exist for researchers, institutions, and funders supporting this transition.

Conclusions:

Ecology should adopt an emergency footing to effectively address the current ecological crisis.
A mission-oriented approach in ecology, supported by key stakeholders, offers significant advantages.
This strategic shift is crucial for achieving better environmental outcomes and advancing ecological science.