Biodiversity and strategy : Subtle equilibriums

Abstract

Biodiversity conservation calls for a revolutionary approach to our relationship with nature and the living world. But it also requires completely rethinking the way we develop international policies and strategies. While these instruments must deal with a highly complex reality, they are too often viewed as simple action plans. Measures and initiatives that are focused on mainly technical solutions eventually result in unfortunate setbacks when the often unpredictable and ever-changing dynamics of life come into play. The United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP15) was held in 2022, and despite the adoption of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, it failed to produce a truly innovative approach to international 'strategy'. It is therefore more necessary than ever to reconsider the official diagnosis that underpins international action. Although certainly difficult, this can be done by mobilising a wide range of expertise from different scientific communities. Drawing on numerous examples and a wealth of research from the humanities, social sciences and conservation sciences, this book offers a profoundly renewed strategic diagnosis as well as levers for activating regenerative processes to benefit the living world.