What is the future of conservation?

Trends Ecol Evol. 2014 Feb;29(2):77-81. doi: 10.1016/j.tree.2013.10.013. Epub 2013 Dec 13.

Abstract

In recent years, some conservation biologists and conservation organizations have sought to refocus the field of conservation biology by de-emphasizing the goal of protecting nature for its own sake in favor of protecting the environment for its benefits to humans. This 'new conservation science' (NCS) has inspired debate among academics and conservationists and motivated fundamental changes in the world's largest conservation groups. Despite claims that NCS approaches are supported by biological and social science, NCS has limited support from either. Rather, the shift in motivations and goals associated with NCS appear to arise largely from a belief system holding that the needs and wants of humans should be prioritized over any intrinsic or inherent rights and values of nature.

Keywords: conservation NGOs; conservation policy; mission statements; new conservation science.

MeSH terms

  • Biodiversity
  • Conservation of Natural Resources / economics
  • Conservation of Natural Resources / methods*
  • Conservation of Natural Resources / trends*
  • Ecosystem
  • Ethics
  • Humans
  • Morals
  • Planning Techniques
  • United States