Conservation biology

This unit deals with threats to the environment associated with human activities and potential solutions to redress their impacts. Recent losses of biota have been caused by habitat loss and degradation, climate change and pollution, the introduction of exotic species and overexploitation of natural resources. Science-based conservation measures are explored that may reduce loss of biodiversity/ecosystem function, including habitat preservation and restoration, combating climate change, and intensive conservation of species. We analyse how conservation efforts may involve trade-offs with biological, economic, social and political factors.