Conservationwhere

Conservationwhere is a framework and methodological approach for determining where to focus conservation actions. It treats location as the central variable and seeks to integrate ecological data with social, economic, and governance considerations to identify high-priority places for protection or restoration.

The term combines "conservation" and "where" and emphasizes spatial prioritization in conservation planning. It has been described in academic and practitioner contexts since the early 2020s as part of broader efforts to make conservation more place-based and outcome-focused.

Methodology uses geographic information systems (GIS), spatial prioritization, and multi-criteria decision analysis. Data layers may include species distributions, habitat quality, connectivity, land tenure, costs, and climate projections. The approach supports scenario analysis and stakeholder engagement, producing maps and scores that guide decisions.

Applications include identifying reserve networks, prioritizing restoration, guiding land-use policy, supporting community conservation efforts, and monitoring effectiveness by tracking changes in spatial targets.

Challenges involve data gaps, uncertainty in forecasts, balancing biodiversity with social and economic needs, and ensuring equitable governance. Critics argue that overreliance on spatial metrics can overlook governance quality, cultural values, and rights of Indigenous peoples.

See also: conservation planning, systematic conservation planning, GIS in conservation, spatial ecology.