2016 AAAS Annual Meeting (February 11-15, 2016)

February 10 - 15, 2016

Using Biodiversity Science for Conservation and Development

Conserving biodiversity on a global scale requires strong linkages between scientists and the decision-makers who are actively shaping conservation and development policy. This session features experts in translating science across the spectrum of engagement – from working with resource-dependent communities, to shaping science research questions, to linking science outputs with specific decision-making needs. Examples include research on the relationship between forestry practices, ecosystem services, and watershed management in Panama and science tools for sustainable fisheries management and marine spatial planning in Honduras. The session covers strategies for linking biodiversity science and policy to effective conservation initiatives, from the community to the national scale. Panelists describe how innovative approaches to biodiversity science can support a range of goals, including biodiversity conservation, food security, freshwater availability, and economic development.