Incorporating governance influences into social-ecological system models: a case study involving biodiversity conservation |
| |
Authors: | Michael Mitchell Michael Lockwood Susan A Moore Sarah Clement |
| |
Institution: | 1. Geography and Spatial Science, School of Land and Food, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia;2. School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Australia |
| |
Abstract: | Addressing environmental problems requires sophisticated approaches to complexity and uncertainty. Conceptual models are increasingly used to improve understanding of complex system interactions. However, cursory treatment of governance limits their analytical potential. This study included governance considerations in a social-ecological system model of biodiversity conservation in the Tasmanian Midlands (Australia). Effectiveness of engagement processes and conservation programme longevity were identified as critical governance influences. The conceptual representation of this system enabled exploration of how governance influences interact with social drivers (e.g. landholder engagement in conservation practices) to modify the effect of biophysical drivers (e.g. land use) on biodiversity outcomes. Such a methodology provides essential information for identifying and guiding governance related points of intervention. |
| |
Keywords: | resilience assessment adaptive governance conservation programme design landholder engagement Tasmanian Midlands |
|
|