ecosystemmanagement

Ecosystem management is an interdisciplinary approach to maintaining the structure, function, and services of natural ecosystems while balancing human needs. It aims to sustain ecological integrity over the long term by considering ecological, social, and economic objectives together rather than in isolation. The approach emphasizes system-level thinking across scales and adaptive responses to changing conditions, and it prioritizes the health of whole ecosystems rather than single species or resources.

Core principles include adaptive management, ecosystem-based or landscape-scale planning, stakeholder participation, and the integration of biodiversity conservation with the provision of ecosystem services such as water purification, pollination, climate regulation, and recreation. Decision making relies on monitoring and learning, transparent processes, and the use of scientific and traditional knowledge to respond to uncertainty. Tools commonly employed include ecological assessments, indicators, GIS, models, and scenario planning.

Implementation occurs within governance structures that may span multiple jurisdictions and communities, often incorporating co-management and rights-based approaches. Applications range from fisheries and forests to watersheds and coastal zones, with goals of resilience, sustainable productivity, and reliable service provision. Challenges include data gaps, funding, governance fragmentation, and competing objectives, all compounded by climate change and invasive species. Success depends on long-term commitment, stakeholders’ collaboration, and adaptive learning.