Integrating Emerging Interdisciplinary STEM Fields to Advance Conservation Science

Keskeiset käsitteet

Integrating emerging fields like conservation physiology, technology, and biomechanics can expand the conservation science toolbox and lead to more effective, evidence-based conservation actions.

Tiivistelmä

This article discusses the potential for integrating three emerging interdisciplinary fields - conservation physiology, conservation technology, and conservation biomechanics - into the broader field of conservation science. The authors first assess the current state of integration of these fields by analyzing publications in major conservation journals from 2010-2022. They find that the proportion of articles incorporating these approaches is low, ranging from 0-4% per year.
The authors then provide case studies for each of the three fields to illustrate their potential contributions to conservation science:

Conservation Physiology: Physiological assessments can support rehabilitation programs for critically endangered sea turtles by informing triage decisions, improving transport protocols, and contributing to policy decisions.

Conservation Technology: Developments in open-source hardware, software, and machine learning are enabling larger datasets to be compiled more efficiently for applications like urban forest monitoring. These tools promote global collaborations through open science.

Conservation Biomechanics: Applying comparative biomechanics and animal movement analysis can inform wildlife reintroduction efforts by establishing physiological and biomechanical benchmarks for captive individuals compared to their wild counterparts.

The authors propose a Challenge-Mechanism-Partnership (CMP) framework to help identify future opportunities for integrating non-traditional fields into conservation science. They emphasize the interconnectedness of these emerging disciplines and the need for diverse, interdisciplinary collaborations to advance the field of conservation science.

Tilastot

"Conservation science is an interdisciplinary field that primarily draws on knowledge from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to inform policy, planning, and practice."
"Given that the biodiversity crisis constitutes one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century, with tremendous consequences for global sustainability and human health, creating a diverse conservation toolbox is important for addressing complex conservation threats."
"Of the three emerging integrative fields, articles referencing technology were most common (0-12 publications/year), followed by physiology (0-7 publications/year), and then biomechanics (0-4 publications/year)."
"Compared to the full complement of articles published in conservation journals, the integrative fields accounted for a small percentage in combination, ranging from 0-4% per year and 2.1% overall."

Lainaukset

"Conservation science is an interdisciplinary field that primarily draws on knowledge from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities to inform policy, planning, and practice."
"Given that the biodiversity crisis constitutes one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century, with tremendous consequences for global sustainability and human health, creating a diverse conservation toolbox is important for addressing complex conservation threats."

Tärkeimmät oivallukset

Expanding Conservation Science through Emerging Interdisciplinary STEM Fields

by Andrew K. Sc... klo arxiv.org 04-25-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2404.15280.pdf

Syvällisempiä Kysymyksiä

How can the integration of emerging interdisciplinary fields into conservation science be incentivized and supported by funding agencies and academic institutions?

Incentivizing and supporting the integration of emerging interdisciplinary fields into conservation science by funding agencies and academic institutions can be achieved through several strategies:

Dedicated Funding Streams: Funding agencies can establish specific grant programs or funding streams that prioritize interdisciplinary research in conservation science. This can include grants for collaborative projects that involve multiple disciplines such as physiology, technology, and biomechanics.

Interdisciplinary Training Programs: Academic institutions can develop interdisciplinary training programs that equip students and researchers with the skills and knowledge needed to work across different fields. This can involve joint degree programs, workshops, and seminars that promote collaboration.

Recognition and Rewards: Funding agencies and academic institutions can recognize and reward interdisciplinary research through awards, fellowships, and tenure considerations. This can incentivize researchers to engage in collaborative work and integrate diverse perspectives.

Collaborative Research Centers: Establishing collaborative research centers or institutes focused on interdisciplinary conservation science can provide a platform for researchers from different fields to come together, share resources, and work on common goals.

Partnerships with Industry and NGOs: Encouraging partnerships with industry partners and non-governmental organizations can provide additional resources and support for interdisciplinary research in conservation science. These collaborations can also help bridge the gap between research and practical conservation applications.

How can traditional ecological knowledge and Indigenous perspectives be incorporated alongside the integration of new technological and analytical approaches in conservation science?

Incorporating traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and Indigenous perspectives alongside new technological and analytical approaches in conservation science is essential for holistic and culturally sensitive conservation efforts. Here are some ways to achieve this integration:

Respect and Collaboration: Engage with Indigenous communities and traditional knowledge holders in a respectful and collaborative manner. Recognize the value of TEK and Indigenous perspectives in understanding ecosystems and biodiversity.

Co-Design Research Projects: Involve Indigenous communities in the design and implementation of research projects. Co-create research questions, methodologies, and outcomes to ensure that the research is relevant and beneficial to the community.

Knowledge Exchange: Facilitate knowledge exchange between traditional knowledge holders, scientists, and conservation practitioners. Create platforms for sharing insights, experiences, and best practices to enhance mutual learning.

Ethical Guidelines: Develop and adhere to ethical guidelines that prioritize the rights, interests, and well-being of Indigenous communities. Obtain free, prior, and informed consent before conducting research and ensure that the benefits of the research are shared with the community.

Interdisciplinary Approaches: Integrate TEK and Indigenous perspectives with new technological and analytical approaches through interdisciplinary collaborations. Combine traditional knowledge with modern tools and methods to gain a comprehensive understanding of conservation challenges.

What ethical considerations and best practices should guide the formation of interdisciplinary conservation science teams and partnerships?

Ethical considerations and best practices that should guide the formation of interdisciplinary conservation science teams and partnerships include:

Equitable Collaboration: Ensure that all team members have equal opportunities to contribute and participate in decision-making processes. Foster a culture of respect, inclusivity, and diversity within the team.

Transparency and Communication: Maintain open and transparent communication channels within the team. Clearly define roles, responsibilities, and expectations to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.

Data Sharing and Ownership: Establish clear guidelines for data sharing, ownership, and authorship. Respect intellectual property rights and give credit to all contributors involved in the research.

Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Develop mechanisms for resolving conflicts or disagreements that may arise within the team. Encourage constructive dialogue, active listening, and compromise to address issues effectively.

Community Engagement: Involve stakeholders, including local communities, policymakers, and conservation practitioners, in the research process. Seek their input, feedback, and collaboration to ensure that the research aligns with their needs and priorities.

Ethical Review: Conduct ethical reviews of research projects involving interdisciplinary teams to assess potential risks, ensure compliance with ethical standards, and protect the welfare of human subjects, animals, and the environment.

By adhering to these ethical considerations and best practices, interdisciplinary conservation science teams and partnerships can foster a culture of integrity, collaboration, and ethical conduct in their research endeavors.