The changing landscape of ecological networks

Ruppert Vimal (1) , Raphael Mathevet (1) , John Thompson (1)

1 CEFE - Centre d’Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive

Ecological networks provide an operational methodology for the implementation of regional conservation strategy and planning that goes beyond protected area designation to integrate the spatial scale of ecological processes and social issues. However, the pertinence of ecological networks as a conservation strategy has recently provoked debate. In this paper we present a discussion of the conceptual limits of ecological network implementation in order to identify the issues which underlie the transition of models and knowledge from science to action. Our examination illustrates how a more collective and explicit management of complexity and uncertainty concerning the ecological processes which such networks supposedly integrate could greatly strengthen the links between science and policy and thereby provide for more effective spatial landscape planning. In this way, the ecological action network could be reframed not as a simple objective but rather as a means for integrated conservation policy

Keywords: Biodiversity; ecological network; model; post-normal science; integrated conservation

Domains: Geography; Biodiversity and Ecology; Environmental studies

Ruppert Vimal, Raphael Mathevet, John Thompson. The changing landscape of ecological networks. Journal for Nature Conservation, 2012, 20, pp.49-55. ⟨10.1016/j.jnc.2011.08.001⟩. ⟨hal-02456105⟩