Size matters for biodiversity
Conservation and biodiversity loss are directly linked to the scale or size of the region affected, and also measured against time. The scale of conservation priorities also changes across different administrative levels (i.e. by region or country), adding more complex variables to the quest for sustainable ecology. The EU-funded SCALES (Securing the conservation of biodiversity across administrative levels and spatial, temporal, and ecological scales) project addressed mismatches in socio-ecological systems, such as the lack of adequate data and its availability at an adequate scale, to inform policymaking. Researchers attempted to bridge social and environmental demands with government responses to relieve pressure on biodiversity. This was achieved through a network of 32 research teams from 20 European countries, Australia and Taiwan. Project partners analysed man-made and natural considerations such as climate change, disturbance and habitat loss to examine impacts on biodiversity and examine the adequacy of policy responses. They also developed new approaches for scaling of information and examining policy instruments to address these scale mismatches. The need to improve coordination of multilevel governance was also assessed. SCALES contributed to a clearer understanding of critical distances to ensure regional connectivity of habitats for various species dispersal distances. It tested methods that facilitate identification of patches of habitat critical to regional connectivity. This is particularly important for Natura 2000 and other networks of protected areas. The project analysed the coherence and ecological viability of networks of protected areas, taking scale into account; it identified gaps and made recommendations to improve networks of protected areas and of networks of areas for ecological priority areas in used landscapes. Further, it identified ways to improve the scale-related effectiveness of policy instruments for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. Results produced by the SCALE project will support future scientific research as well as informed decisions in policy and administration. SCALES' achievements will therefore be pivotal in improving the management of conservation and help protect biodiversity across Europe. Key results and methods are summarized in the SCALETOOL and a book titled Scaling in Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation.
Keywords
Biodiversity, conservation, socio-ecological systems, species dispersal, Natura 2000