The need for evidence-based conservation

William J. Sutherland, Andrew S. Pullin, Paul M. Dolman, Teri M. Knight

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1392 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

Much of current conservation practice is based upon anecdote and myth rather than upon the systematic appraisal of the evidence, including experience of others who have tackled the same problem. We suggest that this is a major problem for conservationists and requires a rethinking of the manner in which conservation operates. There is an urgent need for mechanisms that review available information and make recommendations to practitioners. We suggest a format for web-based databases that could provide the required information in accessible form.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)305-308
Number of pages4
JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution
Volume19
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2004

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