Q BankQuestion BankDocsDocuments

3.3 Conservation and regeneration

Syllabus
First assessment 2026
Topic
3.3
Level
SL

Objective notes

9 learning objectives
3.3.1Preservation justifications

• Aesthetic, ecological, economic, ethical, social

3.3.2Conservation strategies

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

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

3.3.3Mixed conservation approach

• Both habitat and particular species considered

• Flagship/keystone species used to justify habitat conservation

3.3.4Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

• UN treaty addressing species and habitat conservation

• National strategies for conservation and sustainable use

• Includes Nagoya Protocol (equitable sharing of genetic resources)

3.3.5Habitat conservation strategies

• Protect species by conserving natural environment

• May require wild area protection or active management

3.3.6Effective conservation factors

• 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

3.3.7Rewilding

• Regenerates natural processes in ecosystems

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

3.3.8Conservation measures

• Reverse biodiversity decline

• Operating within biodiversity planetary boundary

• Individual, collective, national, international levels

3.3.9Perspectives and conservation strategy choice

• Environmental perspectives and value systems impact choices

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

ConceptIB ESS SL