Closing the Knowledge-Implementation Gap in Conservation Science: Interdisciplinary Evidence Transfer Across Sectors and Spatiotemporal Scales

Description

This book aims to synthesize the state of the art on biodiversity knowledge exchange practices to understand where and how improvements can be made to close the knowledge-implementation gap in conservation science and advance this interdisciplinary topic. Bringing together the most prominent scholars and practitioners in the field, the book looks into the various sources used to produce biodiversity knowledge - from natural and social sciences to Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Citizen Science - as well as knowledge mobilization approaches to highlight the key ingredients that render successful conservation action at a global scale. By doing so, the book identified major current challenges and opportunities in the field, for different sectors that generate, mobilize, and use biodiversity knowledge (like academia, boundary organizations, practitioners, and policy-makers), to further develop cross-sectorial knowledge mobilization strategies and enhance evidence-informed decision-making processes globally. Acknowledgements Contents Part I: Introduction Chapter 1: The Knowledge-Implementation Gap in Conservation Science 1.1 Introduction 1.1.1 Overview of Research on the Knowledge-Implementation Gap in Conservation Science 1.1.2 What Is in a Name: Terminologies 1.2 Barriers to Knowledge Implementation 1.3 Organizing and Structuring What We Are Learning About the Knowledge-Implementation Gap 1.3.1 Narrowing the Knowledge-Implementation Gap at the Knowledge Production Stage 1.3.2 Narrowing the Knowledge-Implementation Gap at the Knowledge Mediation Stage 1.3.3 Understanding and Enabling Knowledge Implementation at the Action Stage 1.4 Where to Go Next: Current Knowledge Gaps in Knowledge Implementation References Part II: The Knowledge Production or Co-production Chapter 2: Biodiversity Monitoring and the Role of Scientists in the Twenty-first Century 2.1 What Is Biomonitoring and Why Is It Important? 2.1.1 The Importance of Scale in Biomonitoring 2.2 Where Do Scientists Fit in Modern Biomonitoring? 2.3 Challenges Associated with Biomonitoring That Widen the Knowledge-Implementation Gap 2.3.1 Biases 2.3.2 Technical Capacity and Data Needs 2.3.3 Funding 2.3.4 Institutional Support 2.4 Successes in Bridging the Gap 2.4.1 Indicators, Data, and Databases: Global Initiatives to Monitor Biodiversity 2.4.2 Biodiversity Observation Networks 2.4.3 Businesses and Biomonitoring 2.4.4 Commonalities Between Initiatives 2.5 Concluding Remarks and Recommendations References Chapter 3: Closing the Conservation Genetics Gap: Integrating Genetic Knowledge in Conservation Management to Ensure Evolution... 3.1 Introduction 3.2 The Development of a New Discipline: Conservation Genetics 3.3 The Conservation Genetics Gap 3.3.1 The Conservation Genetics Gap at the International and National Policy Level 3.3.2 What About Recommendations for Conservation Action in Scientific Articles? 3.3.3 The Conservation Genetics Gap Between Science and Management 3.4 Barriers to Integration of Genetics in Conservation Management and Policy 3.4.1 Lack of Genetic Knowledge Among Managers 3.4.2 Lack of Platforms for Knowledge Transfer and Communication 3.4.3 Lack of Clarity of Policy 3.4.4 Perceived Lack of Applicability of Conservation Genetic Research 3.4.5 Misalignment Between Priorities for Management Versus Research 3.4.6 Lack of Access to Scientific Publications 3.4.7 Lack of Practical Decision-Support Tools for Conservation Managers 3.4.8 Lack of Strategic Funding for Cross-Sectorial Efforts 3.5 Opportunities to Close the Conservation Genetics Gap 3.5.1 Platforms for Continuous Knowledge Exchange and Science-Management Exchanges 3.5.2 Scientists Become More Involved in Practical Conservation and Policy 3.5.3 Knowledge on Genetics Increases Among Managers 3.5.4 Collaboration Between Scientists and Managers in Conservation Research 3.5.5 Institutional and Financial Support Systems 3.5.6 Accessibility of Conservation Genetic Knowledge and Data 3.5.7 Guidelines and Decision-Support Tools 3.6 Case Study 1: Framing Management for Baltic Sea Species by Understanding Their Evolutionary Potential 3.7 Case Study 2: A Genetic Assessment Framework for Plant Conservation 3.8 Conclusions References Chapter 4: Publicly Generated Data: The Role of Citizen Science for Knowledge Production, Action, and Public Engagement 4.1 Introduction: What Is Citizen Science? 4.2 Why Citizen Science? 4.3 How Is Knowledge Generated in Citizen Science? 4.4 How Can Citizen Science Enhance Knowledge to Action? 4.5 Citizen Science in Action 4.5.1 eBird 4.5.1.1 Stakeholder: Scientists 4.5.1.2 Stakeholder: Government/Decision Makers 4.5.1.3 Stakeholder: Individual Data Users 4.5.2 Flint Water Crisis 4.5.2.1 Stakeholder: Community Members 4.5.2.2 Stakeholder: Policy Makers 4.5.3 Locally-Based Monitoring in the Philippines 4.5.3.1 Stakeholder: Managers and Staff 4.5.3.2 Stakeholder: Community Members 4.5.3.3 Stakeholder: Policy Makers 4.5.4 Biodiversity in Southern Africa 4.5.4.1 Stakeholder: Scientists 4.5.4.2 Stakeholder: Policy Makers 4.6 Next Steps 4.7 Conclusion References Chapter 5: Recognition of Indigenous Ecological Knowledge Systems in Conservation and Their Role to Narrow the Knowledge-Imple... 5.1 Introduction 5.1.1 Africa 5.1.2 Asia 5.1.3 Australia 5.1.4 South America 5.1.5 North America 5.1.6 Aotearoa, New Zealand 5.1.7 Europe 5.2 Summary and Conclusions References Part III: The Knowledge Mediation Sphere Chapter 6: The Knowledge Network: Identifying Actors and Structural Dimensions of Knowledge Transfer 6.1 Introduction 6.2 Theoretical and Conceptual Underpinnings of Knowledge and Scale in Conservation Science 6.2.1 The Case for Socially Embedded Knowledge in Conservation Science 6.2.2 Scale and Cross-Scale Linkages in Conservation Science 6.2.3 Knowledge Networks in Conservation Science 6.2.4 Bridging Organizations in Conservation Science 6.3 Comparing Three Cases of Knowledge Transfer in the U.S. Intermountain West: Managing Noxious Weed Species, Grizzly Bear Co... 6.3.1 Data Collection 6.3.2 Invasive Species in the Crown of the Continent 6.3.2.1 Knowledge 6.3.2.2 Scale 6.3.2.3 Networks 6.3.2.4 Bridging Organizations 6.3.3 Grizzly Bear Conservation 6.3.3.1 Knowledge 6.3.3.2 Scale 6.3.3.3 Networks 6.3.3.4 Bridging Organizations 6.3.4 Climate Adaptation 6.3.4.1 Knowledge 6.3.4.2 Scale 6.3.4.3 Networks 6.3.4.4 Bridging Organizations 6.3.5 Summary of the Case Studies 6.4 Conclusion References Chapter 7: Communication: The Bridge Between Knowledge and Implementation 7.1 Introduction 7.2 If Not You, Then Who? 7.3 The First Two Steps to Communicating 7.3.1 Who Is Your Audience? 7.3.2 Know Your Goal 7.4 Difficult Audiences 7.5 Stop Talking, Learn to Listen 7.6 Best Practices in Science Communication 7.6.1 Developing Listening and Empathy Through Improvisation and Connection 7.6.2 Shaping Your Goal 7.6.3 Engage Your Audience 7.6.4 Build Connections 7.6.5 Get Them to Care 7.6.6 Get to the Point 7.6.7 Keep It Simple 7.6.8 Beware of the Curse of Knowledge 7.6.9 Make it Memorable 7.7 The Power of Stories 7.8 Listen and Practice 7.8.1 Listen 7.8.2 Practice 7.9 Bridging the Knowledge-Implementation Gap References Chapter 8: Making an Impact: How to Design Relevant and Usable Decision Support Systems for Conservation 8.1 Introduction 8.2 The Use of Decision Support Systems Beyond Conservation 8.3 Using Decision Support Systems in Conservation 8.3.1 Examples of Successful Decision Support Systems 8.3.1.1 Tool: Conservation Evidence (https://www.conservationevidence.com/) 8.3.1.2 Tool: Toolkit for Ecosystem Services Site-Based Assessment (TESSA) 8.3.1.3 Tool: Ape Seizure Database 8.3.1.4 Tool: Protected Planet https://protectedplanet.net/ 8.3.1.5 Tool: Online Reporting System http://ors.ngo/ 8.3.1.6 Tool: The Cool Farm Tool (https://coolfarmtool.org/coolfarmtool/) 8.4 Barriers for Uptake of Decision Support Systems in Conservation 8.5 Designing Usable, Impactful Systems: Tips for Good Participatory Design 8.6 Using Decision Support Systems for Uncertain, `Wicked´ Problems 8.7 Concluding Remarks References Part IV: The Knowledge-Action Outcome(s) Chapter 9: The Use of Boundary-Spanning Organizations to Bridge the Knowledge-Action Gap in North America 9.1 Introduction 9.2 Boundary-Spanning Organizations as Knowledge Action Actors 9.3 Meeting the Challenges 9.4 Case Studies 9.4.1 Migratory Species Joint Ventures 9.4.2 Consultation on Areas Voluntarily Designated for Conservation 9.4.3 Climate Adaptation Science Centers 9.4.4 Fire Science Exchange Network 9.4.5 The Puget Sound Partnership 9.4.6 Chicago Wilderness 9.4.7 Scientific Advisors to Habitat Conservation Plans 9.5 Discussion 9.6 Conclusions References Chapter 10: Progress and Gaps in Biodiversity Data Mainstreaming and Knowledge Transfer for Conservation in South America 10.1 Introduction 10.1.1 The Knowledge-Implementation Continuum in South America 10.1.2 Structure of the Chapter 10.2 Interactions, Synergies, and Gaps in the Information Flow Between Data and Decisions 10.2.1 The Knowledge Demand Side 10.2.2 The Knowledge Supply Agents 10.2.3 Efficiency and Gaps of Current Knowledge Mobilization Structures in South America 10.3 An Overview of the Region as Captured by an Analysis of the NBSAPs to the Convention on Biological Diversity 10.3.1 Knowledge Production 10.3.2 Knowledge Transfer 10.3.3 Conservation Action 10.3.4 What and Where Are the Gaps from Knowledge to Conservation Action? 10.4 Initiatives Contributing to Narrow the Knowledge-Implementation Gap in the Region 10.4.1 Biodiversity Observation Networks: The Global Initiative 10.4.1.1 The Bolivian Biodiversity Observation Network 10.4.2 Red Listing of Species and Ecosystems: Advances and Challenges 10.5 Challenges and Recommendations to Bridging the Biodiversity Data Mainstreaming Gaps in South America References Chapter 11: Conservation Science in Africa: Mainstreaming Biodiversity Information into Policy and Decision-Making 11.1 Introduction: The Need for Biodiversity Data in Africa 11.2 Challenges Blocking Data Collection and Use 11.2.1 Availability of Data 11.2.2 Usability and Quality of Data 11.2.3 Willingness to Collect, Use, and Share Data 11.2.4 Capacity 11.3 Case Studies 11.3.1 Planning for Protected Areas and Conservation Action 11.3.2 Monitoring Projects, Programs, and Sites 11.3.3 Overlooked Species: Taxonomic and Geographic Data Gaps 11.3.4 National and Regional Mainstreaming of Data 11.3.5 Main Lessons Identified from Case Studies 11.4 Solutions to Enhance Evidence-Based Decision-Making in Africa 11.4.1 Using the Latest Technologies, Methods, and Tools to Access and Share Data 11.4.2 Building Capacity for Data Collection and Use 11.4.3 Working Together in Partnership to Improve the Science-Policy Interface 11.5 Conclusions References Chapter 12: The Marine Conservation Landscape in Europe: Knowledge Support to Policy Implementation and Conservation Action 12.1 Biodiversity in Europe: Relevance, Instruments for Governance and Knowledge Base 12.1.1 European Policy Initiatives and Legal Framework Related to the Conservation of the Marine Environment 12.1.2 The Scientific and Research Landscape in Europe 12.2 The Knowledge-Implementation Pipeline in Europe 12.3 The Knowledge Production-Implementation Flow in Marine Conservation in Europe 12.3.1 The Knowledge Production Component 12.3.2 Knowledge Storage and Sharing: Scientific Publications 12.3.3 Knowledge Storage and Sharing: Platforms and Initiatives 12.3.4 Knowledge Mobilization 12.3.5 Knowledge Translation and Use 12.3.5.1 Case Study 1: Integrating Knowledge from Scientific Community, Regional/European Bodies, Stakeholders and Internation... EU Legislation Regional Sea Conventions Multilateral Environmental Agreements Other Relevant European and International Bodies Research Platforms for Data Collection and Sharing Information 12.3.5.2 Case Study 2: Scientific Knowledge to Inform Policy Priorities: Food from the Oceans Initiative 12.3.5.3 Case Study 3: International Network on Alien Species for Research and Support to Policy: EASIN 12.3.5.4 Case Study 4: Knowledge Collection from an Emergent Industry Sector to Support Policy Development: The Algae Industry... 12.4 Conclusions References Chapter 13: Translating Research into Wildlife Conservation Actions Through Multi-sector Collaboration in Tropical Asia 13.1 Introduction: Asia in Context 13.2 Research-Action Partnerships and the Need for Multi-sector Collaboration 13.2.1 Asia´s Universities 13.2.2 Government Services 13.2.3 International Research Organizations 13.2.4 Nongovernment Organizations 13.2.5 Private Sector 13.2.6 Building Multi-sector Teams that Complement Capacities 13.3 Knowledge Production in Asia 13.3.1 Sources of Conservation Knowledge in Tropical Asia 13.3.2 Future Directions for Research and Funding 13.4 Knowledge Mobilization and Conservation Actions: Asian Case Studies 13.4.1 Category 1: Protected Lands and Species 13.4.1.1 Establishing Protected Areas 13.4.1.2 Engaging Local Communities in the Protection of Endangered Species 13.4.2 Category 2: Natural Areas with Limited Resource Use 13.4.2.1 Engaging Ecotourism Stakeholders in Conservation Actions 13.4.3 Category 3: Production Areas and Captive Breeding 13.4.3.1 Obstacles to Knowledge Transfer in the Conservation of Traditional High-Diversity Agricultural Landscapes 13.4.3.2 The Role of Knowledge Transfer in the Success of Ecological Engineering 13.4.3.3 Knowledge Transfer and Captive Breeding 13.4.4 Some Common Features of Successful Conservation Projects 13.5 Conclusions References Chapter 14: Environmental Knowledge Exchange in Australia and Oceania: How Researchers and Practitioners Are Working Together ... 14.1 Introduction 14.1.1 Oceania and Its Diversity 14.1.2 The Impetus for Evidence-Informed Decision-Making in Oceania 14.1.3 Current Approaches to Bridging the Gap Between Scientists and Practitioners 14.1.4 Concepts and Definitions 14.2 Knowledge Exchange that Benefits Terrestrial and Freshwater Ecosystems in Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia 14.3 Knowledge Exchange in Oceania´s Marine and Coastal Ecosystems 14.4 Knowledge Exchange Practices Supporting Biodiversity Conservation in Australia and New Zealand 14.4.1 Landcare, Natural Resource Management and the Development of Capacity Building Activities in Regional Australia 14.4.2 Threatened Species and Threat Abatement 14.4.3 Regional, Landscape and Protected Area Approaches to Evidence-Informed Management in Australia 14.4.4 Water Reform and Freshwater Ecological Systems 14.5 What Works?: Effective Processes for Knowledge Exchange in Oceania 14.6 Where Is Improvement Required? 14.6.1 Advocacy 14.6.2 Education 14.6.3 Publications 14.6.4 Learning with and from Practitioners and Implementers 14.6.5 Evaluation 14.7 Conclusions References Part V: Synthesis Chapter 15: Closing the Gap Between Knowledge and Implementation in Conservation Science: Concluding Remarks 15.1 Valuable Lessons Learned 15.1.1 The Importance of Multi- and Interdisciplinary Knowledge Sources and Co-production 15.1.2 Improving Science Communication and Spatial-Temporal Connectivity of Various Societal Groups for Evidence-Informed Deci... 15.1.3 A Global Review of the Knowledge-Implementation Gap 15.2 What´s Left to Uncover? 15.2.1 The Critical Contribution of Social Sciences to Closing the Knowledge-Implementation Gap 15.2.2 Information Flow Analysis for a Better Understanding of Social Structure and Knowledge Transfer in Local Communities 15.2.3 Trade-Offs Between Environmental and Socio-Economic Development Goals Impact Conservation Implementation 15.2.3.1 Trade-off Between Conservation Impact and Livelihoods of Local Communities 15.2.3.2 Social Equity 15.2.3.3 Gender 15.3 Ways Forward References