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While habitat destruction and fragmentation remain leading causes of biodiversity loss, existing conservation efforts, primarily centered around protected areas, have shown limitations. Sometimes the haphazard placement and weak management of these areas have hindered their effectiveness.
A publication entitled "Guidelines for Conserving Connectivity through Ecological Networks and Corridors," published by the IUCN Connectivity Conservation Specialist Group in July 2020, signals a groundbreaking shift in conservation strategy. They highlight the critical need to consider connectivity between protected areas, a previously overlooked aspect. Ecological corridors are proposed as essential components of ecological networks, serving as bridges between protected areas, other conservation measures, and intact ecosystems.
Ecological corridors play a pivotal role in restoring biodiversity. They facilitate the movement of species, allowing them to adapt to changing conditions, find mates, and access new habitats. Connectivity conservation is not limited to a single scale but spans from local to continental levels, recognizing that wildlife movements vary in scope and scale.
In the face of mounting challenges, wildlife encounters numerous barriers to movement, including fencing, highways, towns. Ecological corridors offer a lifeline, enabling species to traverse landscapes and maintain genetic diversity. These corridors are essential in combating fragmentation and strengthening biodiversity.
Author: Unknown
Connectivity conservation extends beyond traditional boundaries, encompassing local, regional, and global scales. It aligns with the holistic nature inherent to ecosystems themselves.
Conservation efforts increasingly focus on the scale at which wildlife interacts with their environment. By examining landscapes from a wildlife perspective, we can better understand and address their needs. Ecological networks that consider these scales offer a holistic approach to conservation.
Author: Mark Fox
In the face of unprecedented biodiversity loss and the challenges posed by climate change, connectivity conservation emerges as a visionary solution. Recognizing the vital role of ecological networks and corridors, we have the opportunity to rewrite the conservation playbook. By embracing a connected future, we can protect our planet's precious biodiversity and ensure the resilience of ecosystems for generations to come.
Large-scale connectivity conservation initiatives such as North America’s Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative, Australia’s Great Eastern Ranges, and South America’s Amazon Freshwater Connectivity are all among those established groups approaching fragmentation on this larger scale by connecting protected areas on land, freshwater, or marine locations.
Author: Mark Fox
How Proxima is connecting the dots
We are developing an interactive map of the European Green Belt. The map focuses on enhancing user knowledge about the ecological and cultural importance of the region while promoting responsible ecotourism. It highlights areas rich in biodiversity as well as zones sensitive to conservation where tourism is minimized to protect fragile ecosystems. The map supports eco-friendly travel by enabling direct bookings for eco-tours and experiences, and provides comprehensive information on ecological, cultural, and conservation topics through its interactive layers. This project is designed to enrich user comprehension and promote sustainable actions and ongoing conservation initiatives across the European Green Belt.