Social science for conservation in working landscapes and seascapes

• DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2022.954930
• Publication Date: 2022-08-23T08:52:19Z
• Authors: Nathan J. Bennett; Molly Dodge; Thomas S. Akre; Steven W. J. Canty; Rafael Chiaravalloti; Ashley A. Dayer; Jessica L. Deichmann; David Gill; Melanie McField; James McNamara; Shannon E. Murphy; A. Justin Nowakowski; Melissa Songer
• Keywords: Seascape; Conservation psychology

Biodiversity is in precipitous decline globally across both terrestrial and marine environments. Therefore, conservation actions are needed everywhere on Earth, including the biodiversity rich landscapes seascapes where people live work that cover much of planet. Integrative landscape seascape approaches to fill this niche. Making evidence-informed decisions within these populated working requires an in-depth nuanced understanding human dimensions through application social sciences. Yet, there has been no comprehensive exploration potential science contributions initiatives. We use Smithsonian Working Land Seascapes initiative – established program with a network 14 sites around world as case study examine what topics key improving our how knowledge can inform seascapes. This exploratory identifies 38 linked questions related insights from place-based problem-focused might planning, doing, learning phases decision-making adaptive management. Results also show yield synthetic theoretical more broadly applicable. contend incorporating regarding into integrated initiatives will produce effective, equitable, appropriate robust actions. Thus, we encourage governments organizations increase engagement funding science.