What is the future of conservation?

Abstract

A RECENT MOVEMENT SEEKS to refocus the field of conservation biology and the practical work of conservation organizations by de-emphasizing the goal of protecting nature for its intrinsic values in favor of protecting the environment for its benefits to humans. This “new conservation science” (NCS) has inspired debate among academics and conservationists and motivated fundamental changes in the world’s largest conservation groups. Despite claims that NCS approaches are supported by the biological and social sciences, we argue NCS has limited support from either. Rather, the shift in motivations and goals associated with NCS appear to arise largely from a belief system holding that the needs and wants of humans must be prioritized over any intrinsic rights and values of nature.