A New Unified, Flexible, Scalable, and Inclusive Model for Ecological Problem-Solving

Amanda Crandall, Jack Diedrich, Blake Struthers, Cole Tiemann and Christopher K. Williams ()
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Amanda Crandall: Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware, 531 South College Ave, Newark, DE 19716, USA
Jack Diedrich: Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Delaware, 531 South College Ave, Newark, DE 19716, USA
Blake Struthers: Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware, 531 South College Ave, Newark, DE 19716, USA
Cole Tiemann: Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware, 531 South College Ave, Newark, DE 19716, USA
Christopher K. Williams: Department of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware, 531 South College Ave, Newark, DE 19716, USA

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 23, 1-13

Abstract: Successful, lasting conservation action requires ecological problem-solving that is based on social and empirical science. To alleviate some of the burden associated with organizing the many factors germane to ecological problem-solving, we created an interactive flowchart (the Ecological Problem-Solving Flow Model (EPS Flow Model)) that is adaptable to different ecological problems at multiple spatial scales. Drawing on the strengths of existing models created for specific systems, species, or social dynamics, the EPS Flow Model is biologically relevant, socially inclusive, broadly applicable, locally adaptable, easy to understand, visually appealing, and features loop learning at all stages. To demonstrate how the EPS Flow Model can be used, we incorporate three case study examples that address different ecological problems at multiple spatial scales and in various stages of development. The EPS Flow Model is intended to aid natural resource professionals during the policy planning process to promote more effective and inclusive conservation actions.

Keywords: adaptive management; biological conservation; cultural evolution; decision-making; ecological problem-solving; economics; inclusivity; socio-political; stakeholders (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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