Rewilding is a promising strategy for biodiversity conservation, as it involves restoring ecosystems to their natural state and reintroducing keystone species into their native habitats. However, this approach faces challenges such as habitat suitability and availability, human-wildlife conflict, and adaptive management in conservation. Successful rewilding efforts around the world include the beaver reintroduction in the UK, where the Eurasian beaver was once common across Europe but was eradicated from many countries due to overhunting for fur and meat.
These industrious creatures are ecosystem engineers, creating wetlands that support a rich diversity of life. However, finding suitable habitats for reintroduction can be difficult, as keystone species often require specific conditions, such as particular vegetation types or prey availability. Human-wildlife conflicts may arise when reintroducing keystone species, such as predators such as wolves or big cats, prey on livestock, leading to resistance from local communities. Adaptive management in conservation allows adjustments based on real-time data and unforeseen challenges, making it crucial in the dynamic field of conservation.
To protect and restore our planet’s rich diversity of life, we can learn from successful rewilding efforts and navigate the challenges of keystone species reintroduction. Solutions for biodiversity conservation include biodiversity conservation, restructuring business plans, pressure on governments, funding directed to innovative solutions, substituting products made from sustainable materials, vertical ocean farming, and changing individual choices. Collective efforts at the government, business, or individual level can significantly impact biodiversity conservation. Community-based conservation recognizes the critical role that local communities play in protecting biodiversity and natural resources. This approach involves efforts to protect biodiversity in which the local community actively participates. Key aspects of community-based conservation include local engagement, shared benefits, and customized solutions. Examples of community-based conservation efforts include coastal community associations in Kenya, volunteers safeguarding Oriental Storks in China, coral reef restoration in Malaysia, and biocultural restoration in Hawaii.
Interdisciplinary governance is essential in community-based conservation, as it transforms conservation from mere biological management to interdisciplinary governance, recognizing the interconnectedness of nature, culture, and human well-being. Moving beyond “human-free” conservation, we aim for a world where humans coexist sustainably with nature. Community stewardship traditions and new practices are essential for safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity. # Author – Roohi Bali
