3.3 Conservation and regeneration
- Syllabus
- First assessment 2026
- Topic
- 3.3
- Level
- SL
• 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