Structured decision-making as a framework to incorporate social equity into conservation decisions

Area of Science:

• Conservation Science
• Decision Analysis
• Social Equity Studies

Background:

• Conservation efforts increasingly require balancing diverse actor needs and promoting social equity.
• Global frameworks like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework emphasize inclusive and equitable conservation decision-making.
• Practical methods for integrating social equity into conservation processes are currently limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide practical guidance for incorporating social equity into conservation decision-making processes.
• To develop actionable strategies that strengthen both social and conservation outcomes.
• To bridge the gap between theoretical calls for inclusivity and practical application in conservation.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing structured decision-making (SDM) as a framework for integrating equity.
• Developing 10 specific strategies to enhance social equity throughout the SDM process.
• Systematically embedding multiple dimensions of equity into each stage of decision-making.

Main Results:

• The study presents 10 strategies for improving social equity in conservation decision-making.
• Equity is integrated throughout the SDM process, from stakeholder mapping to outcome assessment.
• Methods for information aggregation and shared understanding tools facilitate collective vision development.

Conclusions:

• Structured decision-making provides a robust framework for operationalizing social equity in conservation.
• The proposed strategies offer practical guidance for conservation practitioners, researchers, and policymakers.
• Integrating equity systematically enhances the effectiveness and fairness of conservation initiatives.