3.3 Conservation and regeneration

• Aesthetic, ecological, economic, ethical, social

• Species-based: ex situ (zoos, botanic gardens, CITES, seed banks)

• Habitat-based: in situ (national parks, reserves, sanctuaries)

• Both habitat and particular species considered

• Flagship/keystone species used to justify habitat conservation

• UN treaty addressing species and habitat conservation

• National strategies for conservation and sustainable use

• Includes Nagoya Protocol (equitable sharing of genetic resources)

• Protect species by conserving natural environment

• May require wild area protection or active management

• Understanding target species biology

• Size and shape of conservation areas

• Edge effects, wildlife corridors for connectivity

• UNESCO biosphere reserves: pristine core, buffer zones, transition zones

• Regenerates natural processes in ecosystems

• Methods: apex predator reintroduction, habitat connectivity, cessation of agriculture

• Reverse biodiversity decline

• Operating within biodiversity planetary boundary

• Individual, collective, national, international levels

• Environmental perspectives and value systems impact choices

• Success depends on: community support, funding, education, legislation, research

• Media use, speed of response, diplomatic constraints

• Financial resources, political influence

• Enhance biodiversity and promote ecosystem equilibrium

• Triggered by rewilding and habitat restoration

• Benefits vs. land-use issues (food production)

• Examples: Knepp Estate, Affric Highlands, Gorongosa

• Three levels: project success, community reception, best approach

• Examples: Willie Smits, Wangari Maathai's Green Belt Movement

• Generates income for protection

• Can have negative societal and ecological impacts