3.3

Arguments for Conservation

Justifications for preserving species and habitats, which can be based on aesthetic, ecological, economic, ethical, and social reasons.

In Situ Conservation

The protection of species within their natural habitats, allowing ecological processes to continue. It is a habitat-based approach (e.g., national parks).

Ex Situ Conservation

The preservation of species outside their natural habitats in controlled environments. It is a species-based approach (e.g., zoos, seed banks).

CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)

An international agreement (an ex situ strategy) that regulates the trade of endangered plants and animals to prevent over-exploitation.

Mixed Conservation Approach

A strategy that combines both in situ and ex situ methods to ensure the survival of species and the health of their ecosystems.

Flagship Species

A charismatic species selected to act as a symbol for an environmental cause, used to raise public awareness and funds for conservation (e.g., Giant Panda, Tiger).

Keystone Species

A species that has a disproportionately large effect on its ecosystem relative to its abundance; its removal can lead to ecosystem collapse.

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)

A UN treaty with three goals: conserve biodiversity, use it sustainably, and share the benefits of genetic resources fairly. Includes the "30x30" goal.

Active Management

Direct human intervention to maintain or restore ecological conditions in a protected area, such as removing invasive species or conducting controlled burns.

Ecosanctuary

A type of protected area, often using pest-exclusion fencing, designed to be a safe haven for native species by eliminating invasive predators.

Edge Effect

The changes in population or community structures that occur at the boundary between two habitats, such as a protected area and surrounding farmland.

Wildlife Corridor

A strip of habitat connecting fragmented protected areas, which allows for the migration and gene flow of species between them.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

A protected area model that balances conservation and sustainable use through zoned areas: a pristine core, a buffer zone, and a transition zone.

The Core Area

The innermost zone of a biosphere reserve, which is strictly protected to conserve biodiversity and ecosystems with minimal human disturbance.

Buffer Zone (Biosphere Reserve)

The area surrounding the core zone where low-impact human activities like research, education, and ecotourism are permitted.

Transition Zone (Biosphere Reserve)

The outermost area of a biosphere reserve where sustainable human activities and settlements are allowed, balancing conservation with community needs.

Rewilding

A conservation approach focused on restoring natural ecological processes with minimal long-term human intervention, often by reintroducing native apex predators or keystone species.

Environmental Value Systems (in Conservation)

The worldviews (ecocentric, anthropocentric, technocentric) that shape a society's choice of conservation strategies, influencing whether they prioritize intrinsic value or human benefit.