essay on conservation

Conserving Earth

Earth’s natural resources include air, water, soil, minerals, plants, and animals. Conservation is the practice of caring for these resources so all living things can benefit from them now and in the future.

Biology, Ecology, Earth Science, Geography, Geology, Conservation

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Earth ’s natural resources include air , water , soil , minerals , fuels , plants, and animals. Conservation is the practice of caring for these resources so all living things can benefit from them now and in the future. All the things we need to survive , such as food , water, air, and shelter , come from natural resources. Some of these resources, like small plants, can be replaced quickly after they are used. Others, like large trees, take a long time to replace. These are renewable resources . Other resources, such as fossil fuels , cannot be replaced at all. Once they are used up, they are gone f orever . These are nonrenewable resources . People often waste natural resources. Animals are overhunted . Forests are cleared, exposing land to wind and water damage. Fertile soil is exhausted and lost to erosion because of poor farming practices. Fuel supplies are depleted . Water and air are polluted . If resources are carelessly managed, many will be used up. If used wisely and efficiently , however, renewable resources will last much longer. Through conservation, people can reduce waste and manage natural resources wisely. The population of human beings has grown enormously in the past two centuries. Billions of people use up resources quickly as they eat food, build houses, produce goods, and burn fuel for transportation and electricity . The continuation of life as we know it depends on the careful use of natural resources. The need to conserve resources often conflicts with other needs. For some people, a wooded area may be a good place to put a farm. A timber company may want to harvest the area’s trees for construction materials. A business may want to build a factory or shopping mall on the land. All these needs are valid, but sometimes the plants and animals that live in the area are forgotten. The benefits of development need to be weighed against the harm to animals that may be forced to find new habitats , the depletion of resources we may want in the future (such as water or timber), or damage to resources we use today. Development and conservation can coexist in harmony. When we use the environment in ways that ensure we have resources for the future, it is called sustainable development . There are many different resources we need to conserve in order to live sustainably. Forests A forest is a large area covered with trees grouped so their foliage shades the ground. Every continent except Antarctica has forests, from the evergreen -filled boreal forests of the north to mangrove forests in tropical wetlands . Forests are home to more than two-thirds of all known land species . Tropical rainforests are especially rich in biodiversity . Forests provide habitats for animals and plants. They store carbon , helping reduce global warming . They protect soil by reducing runoff . They add nutrients to the soil through leaf litter . They provide people with lumber and firewood. Deforestation is the process of clearing away forests by cutting them down or burning them. People clear forests to use the wood, or to make way for farming or development. Each year, Earth loses about 14.6 million hectares (36 million acres) of forest to deforestation—an area about the size of the U.S. state of New York. Deforestation destroys wildlife habitats and increases soil erosion. It also releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere , contributing to global warming. Deforestation accounts for 15 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation also harms the people who rely on forests for their survival, hunting and gathering, harvesting forest products, or using the timber for firewood. About half of all the forests on Earth are in the tropics —an area that circles the globe near the Equator . Although tropical forests cover fewer than 6 percent of the world’s land area, they are home to about 80 percent of the world’s documented species. For example, more than 500 different species of trees live in the forests on the small U.S. island of Puerto Rico in the Caribbean Sea. Tropical forests give us many valuable products, including woods like mahogany and teak , rubber , fruits, nuts, and flowers. Many of the medicines we use today come from plants found only in tropical rainforests. These include quinine , a malaria drug; curare , an anesthetic used in surgery; and rosy periwinkle , which is used to treat certain types of cancer . Sustainable forestry practices are critical for ensuring we have these resources well into the future. One of these practices is leaving some trees to die and decay naturally in the forest. This “ deadwood ” builds up soil. Other sustainable forestry methods include using low-impact logging practices, harvesting with natural regeneration in mind, and avoiding certain logging techniques , such as removing all the high-value trees or all the largest trees from a forest. Trees can also be conserved if consumers recycle . People in China and Mexico, for example, reuse much of their wastepaper, including writing paper, wrapping paper, and cardboard. If half the world’s paper were recycled, much of the worldwide demand for new paper would be fulfilled, saving many of Earth’s trees. We can also replace some wood products with alternatives like bamboo , which is actually a type of grass. Soil Soil is vital to food production. We need high-quality soil to grow the crops that we eat and feed to livestock . Soil is also important to plants that grow in the wild. Many other types of conservation efforts, such as plant conservation and animal conservation, depend on soil conservation. Poor farming methods, such as repeatedly planting the same crop in the same place, called monoculture , deplete nutrients in the soil. Soil erosion by water and wind increases when farmers plow up and down hills. One soil conservation method is called contour strip cropping . Several crops, such as corn, wheat, and clover , are planted in alternating strips across a slope or across the path of the prevailing wind . Different crops, with different root systems and leaves, help slow erosion.

Harvesting all the trees from a large area, a practice called clearcutting , increases the chances of losing productive topsoil to wind and water erosion. Selective harvesting —the practice of removing individual trees or small groups of trees—leaves other trees standing to anchor the soil. Biodiversity Biodiversity is the variety of living things that populate Earth. The products and benefits we get from nature rely on biodiversity. We need a rich mixture of living things to provide foods, building materials, and medicines, as well as to maintain a clean and healthy landscape . When a species becomes extinct , it is lost to the world forever. Scientists estimate that the current rate of extinction is 1,000 times the natural rate. Through hunting, pollution , habitat destruction, and contribution to global warming, people are speeding up the loss of biodiversity at an alarming rate. It’s hard to know how many species are going extinct because the total number of species is unknown. Scientists discover thousands of new species every year. For example, after looking at just 19 trees in Panama, scientists found 1,200 different species of beetles—80 percent of them unknown to science at the time. Based on various estimates of the number of species on Earth, we could be losing anywhere from 200 to 100,000 species each year. We need to protect biodiversity to ensure we have plentiful and varied food sources. This is true even if we don’t eat a species threatened with extinction because something we do eat may depend on that species for survival. Some predators are useful for keeping the populations of other animals at manageable levels. The extinction of a major predator might mean there are more herbivores looking for food in people’s gardens and farms. Biodiversity is important for more than just food. For instance, we use between 50,000 to 70,000 plant species for medicines worldwide. The Great Barrier Reef , a coral reef off the coast of northeastern Australia, contributes about $6 billion to the nation’s economy through commercial fishing , tourism , and other recreational activities. If the coral reef dies, many of the fish, shellfish , marine mammals , and plants will die, too. Some governments have established parks and preserves to protect wildlife and their habitats. They are also working to abolish hunting and fishing practices that may cause the extinction of some species. Fossil Fuels Fossil fuels are fuels produced from the remains of ancient plants and animals. They include coal , petroleum (oil), and natural gas . People rely on fossil fuels to power vehicles like cars and airplanes, to produce electricity, and to cook and provide heat. In addition, many of the products we use today are made from petroleum. These include plastics , synthetic rubber, fabrics like nylon , medicines, cosmetics , waxes, cleaning products, medical devices, and even bubblegum.

Fossil fuels formed over millions of years. Once we use them up, we cannot replace them. Fossil fuels are a nonrenewable resource. We need to conserve fossil fuels so we don’t run out. However, there are other good reasons to limit our fossil fuel use. These fuels pollute the air when they are burned. Burning fossil fuels also releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Global warming is changing ecosystems . The oceans are becoming warmer and more acidic , which threatens sea life. Sea levels are rising, posing risks to coastal communities. Many areas are experiencing more droughts , while others suffer from flooding . Scientists are exploring alternatives to fossil fuels. They are trying to produce renewable biofuels to power cars and trucks. They are looking to produce electricity using the sun, wind, water, and geothermal energy — Earth’s natural heat. Everyone can help conserve fossil fuels by using them carefully. Turn off lights and other electronics when you are not using them. Purchase energy-efficient appliances and weatherproof your home. Walk, ride a bike, carpool , and use public transportation whenever possible. Minerals Earth’s supply of raw mineral resources is in danger. Many mineral deposits that have been located and mapped have been depleted. As the ores for minerals like aluminum and iron become harder to find and extract , their prices skyrocket . This makes tools and machinery more expensive to purchase and operate. Many mining methods, such as mountaintop removal mining (MTR) , devastate the environment. They destroy soil, plants, and animal habitats. Many mining methods also pollute water and air, as toxic chemicals leak into the surrounding ecosystem. Conservation efforts in areas like Chile and the Appalachian Mountains in the eastern United States often promote more sustainable mining methods. Less wasteful mining methods and the recycling of materials will help conserve mineral resources. In Japan, for example, car manufacturers recycle many raw materials used in making automobiles. In the United States, nearly one-third of the iron produced comes from recycled automobiles. Electronic devices present a big problem for conservation because technology changes so quickly. For example, consumers typically replace their cell phones every 18 months. Computers, televisions, and mp3 players are other products contributing to “ e-waste .” The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that Americans generated more than three million tons of e-waste in 2007. Electronic products contain minerals as well as petroleum-based plastics. Many of them also contain hazardous materials that can leach out of landfills into the soil and water supply. Many governments are passing laws requiring manufacturers to recycle used electronics. Recycling not only keeps materials out of landfills, but it also reduces the energy used to produce new products. For instance, recycling aluminum saves 90 percent of the energy that would be required to mine new aluminum.

Water Water is a renewable resource. We will not run out of water the way we might run out of fossil fuels. The amount of water on Earth always remains the same. However, most of the planet’s water is unavailable for human use. While more than 70 percent of Earth’s surface is covered by water, only 2.5 percent of it is freshwater . Out of that freshwater, almost 70 percent is permanently frozen in the ice caps covering Antarctica and Greenland. Only about 1 percent of the freshwater on Earth is available for people to use for drinking, bathing, and irrigating crops. People in many regions of the world suffer water shortages . These are caused by depletion of underground water sources known as aquifers , a lack of rainfall due to drought, or pollution of water supplies. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 2.6 billion people lack adequate water sanitation . More than five million people die each year from diseases caused by using polluted water for drinking, cooking, or washing. About one-third of Earth’s population lives in areas that are experiencing water stress . Most of these areas are in developing countries. Polluted water hurts the environment as well as people. For instance, agricultural runoff—the water that runs off of farmland—can contain fertilizers and pesticides . When this water gets into streams , rivers , and oceans, it can harm the organisms that live in or drink from those water sources. People can conserve and protect water supplies in many ways. Individuals can limit water use by fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, planting drought-resistant plants, and buying low-water-use appliances. Governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can help developing countries build sanitation facilities. Farmers can change some of their practices to reduce polluted runoff. This includes limiting overgrazing , avoiding over-irrigation, and using alternatives to chemical pesticides whenever possible. Conservation Groups Businesses, international organizations , and some governments are involved in conservation efforts. The United Nations (UN) encourages the creation of national parks around the world. The UN also established World Water Day, an event to raise awareness and promote water conservation. Governments enact laws defining how land should be used and which areas should be set aside as parks and wildlife preserves. Governments also enforce laws designed to protect the environment from pollution, such as requiring factories to install pollution-control devices. Finally, governments often provide incentives for conserving resources, using clean technologies, and recycling used goods. Many international organizations are dedicated to conservation. Members support causes such as saving rain forests, protecting threatened animals, and cleaning up the air. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is an alliance of governments and private groups founded in 1948. The IUCN works to protect wildlife and habitats. In 1980, the group proposed a world conservation strategy . Many governments have used the IUCN model to develop their own conservation plans. In addition, the IUCN monitors the status of endangered wildlife, threatened national parks and preserves, and other environments around the world. Zoos and botanical gardens also work to protect wildlife. Many zoos raise and breed endangered animals to increase their populations. They conduct research and help educate the public about endangered species . For instance, the San Diego Zoo in the U.S. state of California runs a variety of research programs on topics ranging from disease control in amphibians to heart-healthy diets for gorillas. Scientists at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, in London, England, work to protect plant life around the world. Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank , for example, works with partners in 54 countries to protect biodiversity through seed collection. Kew researchers are also exploring how DNA technology can help restore damaged habitats. Individuals can do many things to help conserve resources. Turning off lights, repairing leaky faucets, and recycling paper, aluminum cans, glass, and plastic are just a few examples. Riding bikes, walking, carpooling, and using public transportation all help conserve fuel and reduce the amount of pollutants released into the environment. Individuals can plant trees to create homes for birds and squirrels. At grocery stores, people can bring their own reusable bags. And people can carry reusable water bottles and coffee mugs rather than using disposable containers. If each of us would conserve in small ways, the result would be a major conservation effort.

Tree Huggers The Chipko Movement, which is dedicated to saving trees, was started by villagers in Uttar Pradesh, India. Chipko means hold fast or embrace. The villagers flung their arms around trees to keep loggers from cutting them down. The villagers won, and Uttar Pradesh banned the felling of trees in the Himalayan foothills. The movement has since expanded to other parts of India.

Thirsty Food People require about 2 to 4 liters of drinking water each day. However, a day's worth of food requires 2,000 to 5,000 liters of water to produce. It takes more water to produce meat than to produce plant-based foods.

Tiger, Tiger Tigers are dangerous animals, but they have more to fear from us than we have to fear from them. Today there are only about 3,200 tigers living in the wild. Three tiger subspecies the Bali, Caspian, and Javan tigers have gone extinct in the past century. Many organizations are working hard to protect the remaining tigers from illegal hunting and habitat loss.

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• Conservation of Nature Essay

Essay on Conservation of Nature

Conservation of Nature is one of the most important essays writing topics for students of all classes. The need for conservation of nature and various measures for conservation of natural resources are included in the academic syllabus for almost all classes. Our subject matter experts at Vedantu have prepared an informative essay on the topic of Conservation of Nature, which will act as a guideline for the practice purpose of kids and students. The essay is written in an easy-to-understand manner, so as to help the kids to learn and remember the important points for writing this essay. 

Essay 1: Nature is a blessing 

Nature is the source of energy, source of light, source of oxygen, and in turn, source of life. We are nothing without nature and its components. With an increase in human growth and science, we tend to focus on everything but nature. Building bridges, cities, buildings are not only development but also a setback for nature because all we end up doing is cutting off trees, erasing the environment, and creating a ruckus for nature.

Nature has been providing us with everything, be it water, rain, sunlight, oxygen, shelter, or whatnot. In short, nature is the solution to almost all problems. All we need to do is prevent the human race from obliterating to further obliterate nature. The process of doing this is generally known as conservation. We need to conserve nature, we need to conserve life.

Conserving nature is one way of storing something fruitful for our future self, or the future generation. It is like investing money in a bank, which in turn lets you have more than what you invested eventually. 

To conserve nature would be equal to conversing with the human race. We need to start thinking about it. It might seem like a small or negligent topic to talk about but honestly, nature is getting worse with every passing day and we have to start preserving it today.

There is not much needed to conserve nature. We don't have to give in our everything or leave other things to achieve this one goal, no. All we have to do is take small steps, every day. Small steps like trying to save even one ounce of water each day, or trying to plant at least one plant from your side, or trying to lessen air pollution from your side. Nature doesn't ask much from us.

To achieve this goal, we also need to know to have knowledge about a few other things such as our natural resources. Natural resources are classified into two groups, named, Renewable and Non-RenewableNon Renewable resources. 

Renewable resources are those resources that can be recharged, such as solar panels, geothermal, and so on. On the other hand, Non-renewable petrol renewable resources are the ones that cannot be recharged such as fuels, patrol, and so on. We need to let renewable resources overpower non-renewable resources.

The other thing is being aware of the 3Rs technique, i.e., Reduce, Recycle, Reuse. If we pledge to follow these small rules and live by them, we can achieve a lot more than just nature's conservation.  

With an increase in human growth and science, we tend to focus on everything but not nature. Nature is the source of energy, source of light, source of oxygen, and in turn, source of life. We are nothing without nature and its components. Humans are constantly Building bridges, cities, buildings are not only development but also a setback for nature because all we end up doing is cutting off trees, erasing the environment, and creating a ruckus for nature. When we do something to conserve and protect nature, nature will give tremendous benefits for the survival of human beings on Earth. 

Essay 2: Conservation of Nature

‘In every walk in nature, one receives far more than he seeks.’ Nature is the best surprise gift received from God. Nature has blessed us with a variety of things like water, food, shelter, rain, sunlight, oxygen, and countless other things. These things assist humans in the betterment of their lives. Life is unpredictable and it's very difficult to tackle adverse situations, in such times nature is the solution to all the problems. Conservation is having a straightforward meaning of preservation and protection. 

Conserving nature is just similar to adding or keeping cash in the pocket. Nature is the best friend of a human. Have you ever heard of naturotherapy techniques to cure the patient? Patients are advised to take or spend some time in the native place of animals. There they can keep themselves calm and comfortable so that they feel relaxed at the time of surgeries. Many of the medicines have their ingredients collected directly from the forest. 

Have you ever thought about the amount of water we waste in a day? A great amount of water is wasted in our daily chores which could be helpful at the time of droughts. Also, keeping the water clean by not throwing any garbage in it, is the best way to conserve nature. Things made up of plastic should not be thrown off into water bodies as it never decomposes. 

Natural resources can be classified into two categories which are renewable and nonrenewable. Renewable natural resources are those which can be replenished, like solar, wind, geothermal while on the other hand non-renewable are those which cannot be replenished easily over a short span of time. Non-renewable resources like fuels, petrol, and carbon are available in significant quantities. Renewable natural resources are available in good and significant quantities but their proper and effective use can vanish the utilization of non-renewable natural resources. Such as, electricity can be generated with the help of wind or water. Solar cars can reduce the use of petrol cars. This helps in keeping our earth an evergreen place to live. The conversion of one energy form into another is the best possible way to stop the consumption of non-renewable resources and to start making the best use of renewable energy. 

Urbanization increases the rate of the population on concrete homes and decreases the reserves of natural utilities. 

Nature has a lot to give, but there must be a proper way to store and reuse it. the 3R technique (Reduce, Recycle, and Reuse) proves the best method for conservation purposes. It states first try to reduce the use, or recycle the material or reuse it for other purposes. Many NGOs are spreading awareness among the people regarding this, but in the end, it's up to the self to take an initiative to make a change. As far as possible avoiding the use of non-renewable resources is the best possible way to maintain the reserves. Even keeping the water potable is a way of conservation. We have to start it someday, so why is that someday not today? Taking a step towards conserving nature is just like taking the step to success.

Final Thoughts

In your essay on Conservation of Nature, you should emphasize the need to conserve natural resources and the measures that can be taken for conservation. In the introduction paragraph, you may write about the gifts of nature and how nature actively supports the survival of living beings. For the body of your essay, you may write one or two paragraphs, stating the types of natural resources and how they are beneficial to humans. Also, write about the overuse of natural resources, leading to a faster rate of depletion than they can be replenished. In the concluding paragraph, write about the measures that can be taken to conserve natural resources. You can refer to the essay on this topic available on Vedantu to get a better idea.

FAQs on Conservation of Nature Essay

1. What are the main points to be written in an essay on the Conservation of Nature?

An essay on Conservation of Nature has to be informative and the points in it have to be relevant to most of the readers. The below-given questions will help you frame your essay on the Conservation of Nature.

What are the gifts of nature to living beings?

How does nature help us in rejuvenation?

What are the benefits drawn from natural resources, in our daily lives?

Is there any medicinal benefit that can be derived from nature?

How many types of natural resources are there? What are they?

How can we conserve renewable natural resources?

How can we save our nature from pollution?

What is the 3R technique?

2. How to write an essay on Conservation of Nature?

In your essay on Conservation of Nature you should emphasize the need to conserve natural resources and the measures that can be taken for conservation. In the introduction paragraph, you may write about the gifts of nature and how nature actively supports the survival of living beings. For the body of your essay, you may write one or two paragraphs, stating the types of natural resources and how they are beneficial to humans. Also, write about the overuse of natural resources, leading to a faster rate of depletion than they can be replenished. In the concluding paragraph, write about the measures that can be taken to conserve natural resources. You can refer to the essay on this topic available on Vedantu to get a better idea.

3. What is the 3R principle?

The 3R’s stand for ‘reduce’, ‘reuse’, and ‘recycle’, it is more often referred to as the three R’s of sustainability. The objective of these three R’s is conserving natural resources by cutting down their waste. Recycling and reusing manufacturing wastes and raw materials are meant to reduce the wastage of resources and the energy derived from these resources.

4. Is it important to write about the 3R principle in the essay on Conservation of Nature?

Yes, it is important to write about the 3R principle in your essay on the Conservation of Nature. It is one of the most effective measures to conserve natural resources and is being practiced all over the world. This will make your essay even more informative from the readers’ perspective.

5. Why is the conservation of nature necessary?

The conservation of nature is important because without nature there won’t be life possible on our planet. Nature gives us the necessary value to live our life. It provides us food to eat, eater to drink, and air to breathe. Nature has been providing us with everything, be it water, rain, sunlight, oxygen, shelter, or whatnot. In short, nature is the solution to almost all problems. Also, it provides us with a shelter to live in, and those valuable things that help us to live a good life. 

Essay On Conservation Of Environment

Table of Contents

Short Essay On Conservation Of Environment

Conserving the environment is crucial to maintaining the balance of nature and ensuring the survival of both humans and wildlife. The environment consists of all living and non-living things that surround us, and it provides the necessary resources for our survival, such as food, water, and air.

However, human activities have led to widespread environmental degradation, including deforestation, pollution, and climate change. These actions have caused harm to the environment, putting the future of our planet and its inhabitants at risk.

To conserve the environment, it is essential to adopt sustainable practices and reduce the negative impact of human activities. This can be achieved by reducing waste, conserving energy and water, planting trees, and using environmentally friendly products. Additionally, supporting environmentally friendly businesses and organizations and lobbying for environmental policies can help to create a sustainable future.

It is also important to educate the public about the importance of environmental conservation and the steps they can take to make a difference. This can be done through schools, media campaigns, and community initiatives.

In conclusion, the conservation of the environment is a critical issue that requires immediate attention and action. By adopting sustainable practices and raising awareness, we can ensure a healthy and thriving planet for future generations.

Long Essay On Conservation Of Environment

In today’s world, conservation of the environment has become an increasingly important topic. With the rise of global temperatures, pollution, and other environmental issues, it is becoming more and more critical for us to do our part in preserving the environment. In this essay, we will explore how we can be more mindful of our environment and what we can do to conserve it.

Introduction

In today’s world, the issue of environmental conservation is more important than ever. With the world’s population continuing to grow, and the demand for resources increasing, it is essential that we all do our part to conserve the environment.

There are many ways in which we can conserve the environment, and each of us can make a difference. Here are just a few things you can do to help:

• Recycle – recycling is one of the easiest ways to reduce your impact on the environment. By recycling materials such as paper, glass and metal, you can help to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfill sites.

• Reduce energy consumption – another easy way to help conserve the environment is to reduce your energy consumption. Turn off lights when you leave a room, and unplug electrical appliances when they’re not in use. You can also save energy by using energy-efficient light bulbs.

• Use less water – water is a precious resource, so it’s important to use it wisely. Turn the tap off while brushing your teeth, and take shorter showers. When watering plants, use a watering can rather than a hosepipe.

• Walk or cycle instead of taking the car – whenever possible, try to walk or cycle instead of taking the car. This will help to reduce air pollution and save petrol or diesel.

Doing your bit for environmental conservation doesn’t have to be difficult – just a few small changes can make a huge difference. By following these simple tips, you can help to protect the environment for future generations.

Definition of Conservation of Environment

The conservation of environment is the protection of the natural world from being harmed or damaged. It is the responsibility of each individual to conserve the environment and its resources for future generations. There are many ways to conserve the environment, such as reducing energy consumption, recycling materials, and planting trees.

Causes and Effects of Environmental Degradation

Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources such as air, water and soil; pollution of these resources; or destruction of ecosystems. It is a major global problem with far-reaching implications for human health and well-being.

The main causes of environmental degradation are unsustainable patterns of production and consumption, population growth, poverty, armed conflict, and natural disasters. These factors interact in complex ways to create environmental problems. For example, poverty may lead to over-exploitation of natural resources out of necessity. Or population growth may put pressure on already degraded resources.

The effects of environmental degradation are both direct and indirect. Direct effects include loss of biodiversity, water shortages, soil erosion, and air pollution. Indirect effects include climate change, health problems from exposure to pollutants, and economic losses from reduced crop yields or fisheries productivity. Environmental degradation can also cause social disharmony when it leads to displacement of people from their homes or traditional livelihoods.

Addressing environmental degradation requires action at all levels—individual, community, national, and international. Individuals can reduce their impact on the environment by making more sustainable choices in their daily lives: conserving energy, recycling materials, driving less, eating less meat, etc. Communities can come together to address local environmental problems and advocate for change at higher levels. And nations must develop policies and regulations that incentivize sustainable development and penalize activities that damage the environment. International cooperation is essential to tackling global environmental challenges .

Role of Government in Environmental Conservation

The government has an important role to play in the conservation of the environment. It is the government’s responsibility to enact laws and regulations to protect the environment. The government can also provide financial incentives to encourage businesses and individuals to take steps to conserve the environment. In addition, the government can educate the public about environmental conservation and lead by example.

Role of Individuals in Environmental Conservation

The protection and improvement of the environment is everyone’s responsibility. Individuals have a role to play in environmental conservation. Some of the things that individuals can do to help protect the environment are:

Reduce, reuse, and recycle – One way to reduce the amount of waste we produce is to recycle items that can be used again. For example, instead of throwing away an aluminum can, we can recycle it.

Conserve energy – We can save electricity by unplugging appliances when they are not in use and using energy-efficient light bulbs.

conserve water – We can save water by fixing leaks, watering plants during the cooler hours of the day, and using less water when brushing our teeth.

Choose environmentally friendly products – When we buy products, we should choose those that have less packaging or are made from recycled materials. We should also avoid buying products that contain harmful chemicals.

Support renewable energy – We can support renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power by using them ourselves or investing in them financially.

Educate others about environmental conservation – We can educate our family and friends about what they can do to help protect the environment.

Solutions for Conservation of Environment

There are many ways to conserve the environment, and each person can play a role in its preservation. Here are some things you can do to help:

1. Save energy by conserving resources such as water and electricity.

2. Recycle materials whenever possible.

3. Reduce consumption of natural resources.

4. Plant trees and other plants to help purify the air and land. 5. Educate others about the importance of conservation.

Conservation of environment is an important topic for us all to consider. Not only does it help preserve the natural resources we depend on, but it also ensures that future generations will have access to them as well. By taking small steps such as recycling and reducing our energy consumption, we can make a huge impact on the world around us. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to take action now in order protect our planet’s precious resources.

Manisha Dubey Jha is a skilled educational content writer with 5 years of experience. Specializing in essays and paragraphs, she’s dedicated to crafting engaging and informative content that enriches learning experiences.

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Essay on Conservation of the Environment: Preserving Our Planet for Future Generations

Title: conservation of the environment: preserving our planet for future generations, introduction:.

The environment is the very foundation of our existence, providing us with the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the resources we depend upon for survival. However, the rapid pace of industrialization, urbanization, and unsustainable practices has put tremendous pressure on our ecosystems, endangering the delicate balance of nature. In this essay, we will delve into the importance of conserving the environment and discuss the measures we can take to preserve it for future generations.

1. Biodiversity Preservation:

One of the primary reasons for conserving the environment is to protect biodiversity, the incredible variety of life on Earth. Every species, from microscopic organisms to majestic animals, plays a crucial role in maintaining the equilibrium of ecosystems. By preserving biodiversity, we ensure the resilience and stability of ecosystems, which in turn benefits human health, agriculture, and overall well-being. Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas and the prevention of habitat destruction, are essential for safeguarding the intricate web of life.

2. Sustainable Resource Management:

Conserving the environment involves managing our natural resources in a sustainable manner. This means using resources responsibly, minimizing waste, and reducing our reliance on non-renewable sources. By embracing practices like recycling, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture, we can reduce our ecological footprint and ensure the long-term availability of vital resources. Sustainable resource management also includes protecting forests, which act as carbon sinks, provide habitat for countless species, and contribute to the overall health of our planet.

3. Climate Change Mitigation:

Environmental conservation is closely linked to mitigating climate change, one of the most pressing global challenges of our time. The burning of fossil fuels and deforestation have led to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, resulting in rising temperatures and severe weather events. By transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting climate-friendly practices, we can limit the impacts of climate change and protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities.

4. Water and Air Quality Protection:

Conserving the environment also involves safeguarding the quality of our water and air, essential resources for all life forms. Pollution from industrial activities, improper waste disposal, and harmful agricultural practices has contaminated water bodies and compromised air quality. By implementing strict regulations, adopting sustainable practices, and investing in water and air treatment technologies, we can ensure clean and safe environments for current and future generations.

5. Environmental Education and Advocacy:

Education and awareness are pivotal in fostering a culture of environmental conservation. By educating individuals about the importance of environmental protection, we can empower them to make informed choices and take action. Environmental advocacy plays a crucial role in influencing policy decisions, promoting sustainable practices, and holding corporations and governments accountable for their environmental impact. By coming together as a global community, we can amplify our efforts and create a collective movement for the conservation of our planet.

Conclusion:

Conservation of the environment is not just a responsibility; it is a moral imperative for the survival and well-being of future generations. By preserving biodiversity, practicing sustainable resource management, mitigating climate change, and protecting water and air quality, we can ensure a sustainable and thriving planet. It is crucial for individuals, communities, governments, and organizations to work hand in hand to prioritize environmental conservation. By nurturing a deep respect and appreciation for nature, we can pave the way for a harmonious coexistence with our environment and secure a brighter future for all.

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• Environmental Studies /

Environmental Conservation

• Updated on  
• Nov 21, 2022

Human existence is quite impossible without the presence of a healthy ecosystem. Our environment comprises all living and non-living components and their interactions within a natural habitat. Environmental conservation has become one of the core issues that need to be addressed to battle climate change and global warming . Sustainable development is the need of the hour that can save Mother Earth from the repercussions of industrialization. In this blog, we will aim to elaborate upon environmental conservation , its needs and ways of conserving the environment.

This Blog Includes:

What is environment conservation, importance of environmental conservation, forest conservation , soil conservation, waste management, public awareness , pollution control , ways of conserving the environment, speech for environmental conservation, environmental conservation material for upsc, books on environment & environmental conservation, essays on environmental conservation, environmental conservation ppt.

International Day of Nature Conservation is held on the 28th of July around the world annually.

Environmental conservation is a practice that paves the way for protecting the environment and natural resources on the individual, organisational as well as governmental levels.

Various core environmental issues are taking a heavy toll on human lives. Ranging from overpopulation, hydrological issues, ozone depletion, and global warming to deforestation, desertification and pollution , all these issues pose a severe threat to the existence of humankind. Unless environmental conservation is becoming an effective mass movement, it is futile to expect positive growth especially in the age of digital media which holds the potential to bring a revolution to save our planet from destruction. 

Also Read: Importance of Climate Crisis Classes 

It has become inherently important to work towards environmental conservation in contemporary times. The following pointers elucidate this crucial need to save the environment from further degradation:

• To reduce air , water and land pollution
• To facilitate the conservation of natural resources for our future generations
• To ensure the protection of biodiversity
• To implement sustainable development
• To restore the ecological balance
• To save our planet from harmful repercussions of global warming

“A true conservationist is a man who knows that the world is not given by his fathers, but borrowed from his children.” John James Audubon

Check Out: How To Become an Environmentalist?

What are the Methods of Environmental Conservation?

Now that you are familiar with the meaning and importance of Environmental Conservation, let’s understand the core methods through which it can be effectively facilitated:

We know that plants and trees are the essential sources of air, food as well as other day-to-day products we use. Forests are the dwelling place of different living creatures and a single disturbance in the ecosystem can cause disruption in the water cycle as well as the food chain . Thus, afforestation is amongst the core Environmental conservation and aims to plant more trees as well as save the existing ones from cutting down as trees play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance. 

The Global Day of Forests celebrated internationally on 21 March, is an incentive to recognize the vital importance of forests for human and environmental wellbeing.

As one of the prominent methods for environmental conservation, the need for soil conservation has arisen to tackle the harmful effects of soil pollution . On earth , the soil is the main element that plays a pivotal role in soil erosion, land degradation and floods. Soil is filled with rich nutrients for plant production. Soil conservation can be carried out by ensuring minimal use of fertilizers and venomous chemicals as well as abolishing the disposal of harmful industrial waste in the soil. 

Especially in developing countries and congested places, on a daily basis, a large amount of waste is thrown away recklessly on the streets and roads. The improper disposal of waste segregation can lead to various dreadful diseases as well as soil pollution.

To ensure minimal wastage as well as facilitate waste disposal, we can opt for various techniques like the 3R’s, i.e. Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, dry and wet waste segregation, amongst others.

Also Read: How to Become an Environmental Chemist?

With the boom of information technology and the advent of digital media, public awareness about environmental conservation can potentially yield promising results. There is a dire need to make the masses aware of the consequences of environmental pollution and degradation. Further, every individual should be conscious of how they are polluting the environment and what steps can be taken to implement environmental conservation, be it through using greener energy sources to following the 3Rs of Reduce, Recycle and Reuse. 

Every year on the 2nd of December, India observes National Pollution Control Day in remembrance of the memory of those who lost their lives in the tragic 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy.

As the increase in temperature is concerning, there is a need to keep a watch on the toxic compounds we ingest that pollute the atmosphere. We need to adopt environmentally sustainable methods to minimise multiple forms of emissions, such as eliminating waste, saving electricity, limiting the unnecessary usage of fertilisers, insecticides and pesticides, and using energy-efficient appliances, among others.

“In nature’s economy the currency is not money, it is life.” Vandana Shiva

Also Read: Environmental Science Courses

Here are some ways of conserving the environment:

• Deforestation must be stopped
• Natural non-renewable resources must be utilized properly
• Every year, we lose a huge number of forest life due to forest fires. We must find a solution to this.
• Afforestation is the best way to conserve the environment
• Create public awareness
• Control pollution and population
• Recycle goods
• Adopt an environment-friendly lifestyle
• Adopt waste management techniques
• Species on the verge of extinction should be saved.

Good morning everyone. My name is _____ and my topic for today’s assessment is the Save Environment. What’s the biggest threat to everyone globally? Is it the decreasing currency rate or fewer jobs? Other than these, one of the major issues we are facing today is the adverse implications on mother earth. We want our houses to be clean, and our school uniforms to be always ironed so why are we not concerned about the place we all live in? Melting glaciers, natural calamities, climate change, and shortage of water are just some major alarming points, if we don’t do something today there will be more consequences. Environmental pollution can not be pinned on a single country or individual we all have been participating in it directly or indirectly and we certainly won’t be able to change it back to normal in a day but little effort every day can lead to a big change.

Although the environment or environment conservation syllabus for the UPSC Civil Services Mains exam is less, we still suggest our UPSC aspirants not to leave important topics on environment and environment conservation. Given below is a list of important topics and sub-topics on the environment that you must study if you are preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination for future:  

• Conservation of Soil and Land 
• Water and Energy Conservation 
• Biodiversity and Environment Conservation 
• Conservation of other Natural Resources 
• Water Conservation at Different Levels 
• Energy Conservation 
• Disasters and their Management 
• Yojana on Disaster Management.
• Disaster Management Report (in brief)
• National Environmental Issues
• Global Environmental Issues 
• Environmental Pollution 
• Pollution (in brief)
• Environment and Health
• Environmental Legislation 
• Environmental Related Institutions and Organisations
• Environmental Impact assessment

Note: These materials are adequate for preparing the static portion of the syllabus’s environment-related subjects. Aside from the materials listed above, you must research current environmental issues in newspapers and publications. You may also study the above-mentioned topics by consulting NCERT books.

 “It’s hard to celebrate the world when it vanishes piece by piece, but I’m still an optimist. I’m sure it doesn’t pay to be too serious all the time, even about issues such as global warming.” Si mon Drew

Confused about how to write an essay on Environment Conservation? Here are some samples to help you get started.

• Essay on Environment
• Essay on Save Environment
• Essay on Sustainable Development
• Essay on Global Warming
• Essay on Pollution
• Sustainable Management of Natural Resources

The prevention, management and conservation of natural habitat and species are known as environmental conservation.

Here are some common methods for the same: 1. Use cotton bags and say no to plastic 2. Use less water and find ways to save water 3. Recycling 4. Waste Management 5. Sustainable development

Life is possible on earth just because we have a perfect environment to live in. It is our responsibility to provide the same or similar experience to the upcoming generation. To save life on earth, it is essential to save the environment.

1. Environmental Conservation 2. Animal conservation 3. Marine Conservation 4. Human Conservation

Hence, we hope that this insightful blog on environmental conservation has helped you understand its importance and ways of conserving the environment from further deterioration. Planning to study Environmental Sciences? Sign up for an e-meeting with our Leverage Edu experts and we will assist you in selecting the right course and university that fits your interests, skills and preferences.

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Very clear and helpful notes

Hi Charles, Thanks for your feedback!

This is the format I was looking for ! Thank you LEVERAGE EDU

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Nice answer

Hey Sushmita!

Thank you for your comment. If you enjoyed our blog on Environmental Conservation then do check out similar blogs like

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Hi Mary, Thanks a lot for appreciating our blog on Environmental Conservation. Here are some amazing and interesting reads that you should try: https://leverageedu.com/blog/environmental-movements https://leverageedu.com/blog/environmental-management/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/msc-environmental-science/

Damn! This is really helpful for me . because I had an project on environmental conservation and it took me so long to decide a topic but this helped me a lot thank u

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Environmental Protection — Conservation

Essays on Conservation

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Wolf Life Matter: an Issue of Wolves Conservation

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What is environmental conservation? Benefits, challenges, and how to get involved

Discover "what is environmental conservation" and learn how you can join various environmental projects globally to make a positive impact. Get involved today!

Worldpackers Worldpackers

Jul 13, 2024

Traveling the world lets you experience all its beauty firsthand—but also, sometimes, the not-so-beautiful: pollution, deforestation, and other signs of damage. This is where learning about what environmental conservation is comes in, and how crucial it is to protect our planet .

In this post, we’ll dive into the significance of environmental conservation and explore how you can take action. Whether you're passionate about reducing waste, conserving water, protecting wildlife, or promoting clean energy, there are numerous environmental projects around the world that need your help. We'll guide you on how to get involved and make a real impact. So, if you're ready to embrace sustainable living and join the fight for our planet, keep reading!

Suggested reading: 7 tips to be a more conscious traveler and  15 easy ways to reduce plastic waste while traveling .

What is environmental conservation?

So, what is environmental conservation? It’s simply the act of protecting the environment from harmful human activities, and it’s more important now than ever.

Environmental conservation focuses on preserving natural resources , like forests, wildlife, water and energy, for present and future generations. It aims to curb pollution through a multi-pronged approach involving the responsible management of resources. 

Historically, this concept gained traction during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a time marked by rapid industrialization and significant environmental degradation. Early conservationists, like John Muir and Gifford Pinchot, advocated for the responsible use and management of natural resources, laying the groundwork for modern conservation efforts.

At its core, environmental conservation aims to balance human needs with the health of the environment . This involves a range of activities, including preserving natural habitats, protecting endangered species, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable resource management. It's not just about saving trees or protecting cute animals; it's about maintaining the complex web of life that supports all living things, including humans .

The importance of environmental conservation

The scope of environmental conservation is broad and multifaceted. It includes efforts to combat climate change, manage natural resources sustainably, and reduce human impact on ecosystems. It also involves advocacy and education to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.

Protecting biodiversity

Our planet thrums with an incredible diversity of life, each with a role to play in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem. When habitats are destroyed, or pollution goes unchecked, it throws a wrench in the works, driving many plants and animals toward extinction. This loss of biodiversity threatens food security, access to clean water, and the delicate balance of our ecosystems.

A report by over 11,000 scientists warned of the "untold suffering" to come if we fail to address the current climate crisis. Scientists warn this will lead to collapsed ecosystems, mass extinction of wildlife, food scarcity and global displacement of people.

Environmental conservation seeks to counteract these negative effects by protecting habitats through sustainable practices which help to preserve biodiversity. 

Combating climate change

Our actions—particularly the burning of fossil fuels and rampant deforestation—wreak havoc on our climate. Greenhouse gas emissions are a major contributor to this environmental challenge, impacting air quality and contributing to global warming.

Environmental conservation, especially through reforestation , r enewable energy use , and responsible land management , aims to mitigate the negative effects of human activity on the environment. It all ties back to taking proactive measures to heal the environment, so it can heal us in return. 

Ensuring clean water and air

Environmental conservation plays a huge role in the quest for keeping our water and air clean. Wetlands, forests, and other natural areas act as nature’s filtration systems.

Wetlands, for example, absorb pollutants from water, making it cleaner by the time it reaches our taps. Forests do something similar for the air. Trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants, releasing fresh oxygen for us to breathe. This natural filtration is crucial for maintaining the quality of our water and air, which directly impacts our health and well-being.

Additionally, conserved areas help regulate water cycles, reduce soil erosion, and prevent floods, all of which contribute to stable and clean water supplies.

Sustaining agriculture and food security

Healthy soils are the foundation of productive farming. Conservation practices like crop rotation, cover cropping, and reduced tillage help maintain soil health by preventing erosion, improving fertility, and increasing resilience to droughts.

Protecting natural habitats also supports the pollinators, like bees, butterflies, and bats, which are critical for the pollination of many crops. Without these pollinators, our food supply would be at risk.

Moreover, by conserving water through sustainable practices and protecting wetlands, we ensure that agriculture has a reliable source of clean water. This, in turn, helps maintain crop yields and food production. 

Suggested reading:  Organic gardening: a practical guide to a greener home

Helping rural communities

Thriving natural ecosystems provide so much for rural communities—clean water, fertile land, and raw materials. When we don’t protect these valuable resources, these communities bear the brunt.  Deforestation and environmental damage disproportionately impact these communities. 

Environmental conservation ensures the well-being and sustainable livelihoods of local people by advocating for the ethical use and management of land. It recognizes the connection between a healthy environment and the well-being of local communities. 

Keep reading:  Discovering off the grid communities: What you need to know and How to join them .

Key areas of environmental conservation

Environmental conservation encompasses diverse fields. Each focuses on protecting different parts of the natural world, working to find solutions to the numerous environmental challenges we face today.

Wildlife conservation

Think of this as safeguarding our planet's remarkable diversity of animals. From tigers to turtles, preserving habitats, combating poaching and illegal wildlife trade, and promoting sustainable living alongside wildlife—these all play crucial roles in wildlife conservation .

It focuses on protecting endangered species and their habitats, promoting biodiversity, and minimizing human-wildlife conflict .

But wildlife conservationists are fighting an uphill battle against numerous threats, and their success hinges on global cooperation and proactive measures to protect endangered species and their delicate habitats. By supporting organizations dedicated to wildlife conservation and advocating for policies that protect wildlife and their habitats, we can help make a difference.

Read these  Tips for wildlife watching and how to do it ethically  and check 4 animal mistreatment experiences to avoid on your trips .

Forest conservation

Forests—they're often called the Earth’s lungs for a reason. They are not just beautiful, they’re essential. These vibrant ecosystems are vital in regulating our climate, purifying our air and water, and providing us with wood and countless other resources.

Deforestation, driven by factors like agriculture, logging and infrastructure, continues to pose a threat. 

Forest conservation actively addresses this challenge by advocating for sustainable forestry practices, promoting reforestation, and combating illegal logging to protect this important natural resource. This includes efforts to prevent deforestation, manage forests sustainably, and restore degraded forest landscapes.

Marine conservation

Covering the vast majority of our planet, oceans are teeming with an astounding variety of life. They play a vital role in regulating the Earth's climate, absorbing carbon dioxide, and supporting a vast web of marine life. Yet, they face numerous threats, including pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction.

By establishing protected marine areas, advocating for sustainable fishing methods, and cleaning up plastic waste already choking our oceans, marine conservation aims to conserve these ecosystems. 

Water conservation

Every drop counts, right? From showering to farming, from brushing our teeth to producing the clothes we wear, our daily lives depend on water. However, freshwater resources are under increasing pressure from overuse, pollution, and climate change, making water conservation more crucial than ever.

Water conservation encourages us to use this precious resource wisely. It starts with embracing practices like fixing leaks promptly, installing water-efficient appliances, and adjusting irrigation methods in agriculture. Reducing water waste lessens the strain on freshwater resources and is especially important in regions grappling with water scarcity.

Energy conservation

By reducing energy consumption and promoting efficient use, environmental conservation efforts aim to mitigate the impacts associated with energy production and consumption.

This includes advocating for policies that encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

Additionally, conservation efforts involve promoting energy-efficient technologies and practices in both residential and commercial sectors. By prioritizing energy conservation, environmental conservation aims to decrease greenhouse gas emissions, lessen dependence on finite fossil fuels, and minimize environmental degradation associated with energy extraction and production. This approach not only contributes to a more sustainable energy future but also supports broader conservation goals by reducing overall environmental footprint and preserving natural resources for future generations.

How to get involved with environmental conservation

Ready to make a difference for our planet but not sure where to start? There are lots of ways you can get involved, no matter your interest. From making sustainable choices in your daily life to supporting conservation organizations, every action counts in protecting our natural heritage.

Volunteering with Worldpackers

Conscious travelers have a sense of responsibility for the planet, and with Worldpackers, you can combine your travel lust with a passion for conservation by volunteering on environmental projects around the globe. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to environmental protection while immersing yourself in different cultures .

Looking to lend a hand with reforestation efforts in Costa Rica , maybe marine conservation in Thailand or wildlife conservation in Africa ? Worldpackers lets you connect with hosts from all over. This hands-on experience deepens your connection with local communities and provides invaluable skills—a major resume booster , and you’ll forge incredible memories, too.

Besides the positive impact on our planet, environmental volunteering provides an opportunity to meet people who have similar interests and values than you . Volunteering together for a cause can also foster a sense of community and belonging, which is often missing these days.

Moreover, spending time outdoors, breathing fresh air, and engaging in physical activities such as hiking, gardening, or doing beach cleanups can do wonders for your mental health.

In exchange for your help, you'll get free accommodation on site, and -depending on the agreement- meals can be included, as well as other perks like free activities to join.

In the Worldpackers' platform you will find plenty of opportunities to  volunteer in environmental conservation projects  around the world. 

These are a few of the many projects you could join:

• Help with a honeybee ecotourism operation in Maui, Hawaii .
• Assist in the research and study of animals, insects and plants in the jungle of Peru .
• Help and learn in an eco-village in the south of Italy .
• Join an organic family-run farm in the mountains of central Portugal .
• Help organizing environmental related activities in a non-profit school in India .

Environmental project in Costa Rica

Connect and give back while exploring Costa Rica's epic beaches and sunsets at Finca Ganadito .

This specific project located in the famous Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica offers a service learning experience steeped in sustainability.

You'll engage in eco-farming, ecosystem protection, and community enrichment. Savor vegan farm-to-table meals, and as you embrace eco-conscious living, discover personal growth and make bonds with like-minded souls. 

Turtle conservation (July to December only), organic farming , producing coconut oil and soap  and creating organic fertilizers are some of the activities involved. Plus, you'll benefit from yoga and Spanish lessons during your stay.

Volunteers who have had this experience shared this kind of words about it:

"My experience with the eco village was incredibly valuable and rewarding. Rob and Rebe were professional, engaging & consistent hosts. There was a ton of variety & balance throughout our tasks & everything was extremely organized. The location was breathtaking. Waking up to the sounds of monkeys & greetings by colorful macaws made each day made each day feel like a dream. Rebe prepared each farm to table meal with her soul. Her yoga classes truly resonated with me as well. Rob is kind & genuinely cares about his work. His Spanish classes were also super fun and helpful. I would 100% return." Michael, USA.

"I felt at home at the eco village within a week. The hosts, Rob and Rebe cultivate a welcoming, family-like environment. We actually worked less hours than 5 per day, and the tasks were different every day so had ample free time to go to the beach, read, do yoga, etc! It often didn't feel like actual work because we got to learn so much about plants and animals! The living space is also super clean (and they're proud of it) which you might not think but makes a huge difference in comfort in the jungle. I loved learning new vegetarian recipes with Rebe and always felt full from the food!" Dona, Canada.

Did you like these ideas? Subscribe to the Worldpackers Community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions until you are ready to get verified. 

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Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

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Tree planting volunteering: how to make a difference

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If a host thinks you’re a good fit for their position, they’ll pre-approve you.

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Have a transformative experience and make a positive impact on the world.

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Essay on Conservation of Environment

Students are often asked to write an essay on Conservation of Environment in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Conservation of Environment

Introduction.

The environment is our life support system, providing us with air, water, and food. It’s crucial for our survival and well-being.

Why Conserve the Environment?

Conserving the environment ensures a healthy planet for future generations. It helps prevent global warming, loss of biodiversity, and pollution.

Ways to Conserve the Environment

Simple steps such as recycling, reducing waste, conserving water, and planting trees can make a big difference. Switching to renewable energy sources also helps.

Everyone has a role in environmental conservation. It’s our responsibility to protect our planet for ourselves and future generations.

250 Words Essay on Conservation of Environment

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Reviewing the science on 50 years of conservation: Knowledge production biases and lessons for practice

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• Published: 18 July 2024

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• Neil M. Dawson   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-7312-9230 1 , 2 ,
• Brendan Coolsaet 3 , 4 ,
• Aditi Bhardwaj 5 ,
• David Brown 1 , 6 ,
• Bosco Lliso 7 , 8 ,
• Jacqueline Loos 9 , 10 ,
• Laura Mannocci 2 , 11 ,
• Adrian Martin 1 ,
• Malena Oliva 12 ,
• Unai Pascual 8 , 13 ,
• Pasang Sherpa 14 &
• Thomas Worsdell 15  

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Drawing on 662 studies from 102 countries, we present a systematic review of published empirical studies about site-level biodiversity conservation initiated between 1970 and 2019. Within this sample, we find that knowledge production about the Global South is largely produced by researchers in the Global North, implying a neocolonial power dynamic. We also find evidence of bias in reported ecological outcomes linked to lack of independence in scientific studies, serving to uphold narratives about who should lead conservation. We explore relationships in the sample studies between conservation initiative types, the extent of Indigenous Peoples’ and local communities’ influence in governance, and reported social and ecological outcomes. Findings reveal positive ecological and social outcomes are strongly associated with higher levels of influence of Indigenous Peoples and local communities and their institutions, implying equity in conservation practice should be advanced not only for moral reasons, but because it can enhance conservation effectiveness.

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Introduction

In response to unabated global biodiversity loss, conservation actions are multiplying across the world (Watson et al. 2019 ; Gurney et al. 2023 ). Notably, the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity adopted an ambitious Global Biodiversity Framework in December 2022, with targets to be achieved by 2030. These targets include a significant increase in the global area of land and sea under conservation measures to 30% (known as the “30 × 30 target”), effective restoration programmes for at least 30% of degraded ecosystems, and a reduction in the loss of areas of high biodiversity to close to zero (CBD 2022 ). Global meta-analyses of conservation initiatives’ performance have been interpreted to suggest that, on the whole, conservation actions have positive effects on biodiversity, and that funding for and implementation of current practices should therefore be expanded (Langhammer et al. 2024 ). However, this assumes conservation to be an apolitical exercise, whereas in practice site-level conservation interventions implemented around the world to protect, restore, or sustainably use nature vary greatly, and are highly political, complex, dynamic, and contested, affecting the lives of billions of people in profound ways (Pimm 2021 ). Unresolved questions remain over what forms of conservation work, particularly with regard to who should control and manage conservation, and on which values and knowledge systems conservation interventions should be based (Pascual et al. 2021 ; IPBES 2022 ; Pascual et al. 2023 ). Conservation monitoring data provide limited insights due to its geographic skew towards recording sites in the Global North, the types of conservation actions covered being primarily associated with state and NGO-led protected areas, while social, governance, human rights, and power dynamics remain largely overlooked (UNEP-WCMC 2018 ; Ghoddousi et al. 2022 ). The increasing number and geographic coverage of scientific studies of conservation practice offer a potential body of knowledge to nuance what lies behind some of these gaps (Moon et al. 2019 ). However, this also raises questions regarding how academic knowledge about conservation practice is produced, by whom, and what the implications of any biases and limitations might be (Cook et al. 2013 ; Colloff et al. 2017 ).

Here we present an in-depth synthesis of (English-language) 662 peer-reviewed empirical studies of site-level conservation interventions worldwide that were established over 50 years (1970–2019), including a wide range of interventions involving diverse actors and institutions on the ground. The sample of studies used is not assumed to be representative of global conservation practice or trends over time because the locations, initiatives studied, and questions explored are influenced by geographic biases and research trends.

Initially, we reflect on and analyse patterns within the sample, considering where and by whom knowledge about conservation is produced, and on how biases and potential conflicts of interest in conservation research might limit or shape its suitability to make inferences about conservation practice and its outcomes. With limitations, the dataset enables an exploration of the state of scientific knowledge about biodiversity conservation practice and provides a complementary alternative to the limitations of global conservation monitoring data, by providing insights into (i) the range and types of conservation interventions implemented, (ii) the extent of influence of Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPs & LCs) in conservation governance, and (iii) factors influencing the ecological and social outcomes associated with conservation interventions.

Conservation practice and the recognition of indigenous and local knowledge systems

Conservation interventions vary considerably, but often include one or a combination of the following: area-based or species protection, access or sustainable use regulations, livelihood support for local communities, financial incentives, education programmes, and customary management practices and local stewardship (Mace 2014 ; Apostolopoulou et al. 2021 ). The forms of governance employed in conservation also vary, according to who exercises control and through what institutions and interactions, including the extent of influence of IPs & LCs and their institutions relative to state, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and private actors (Borrini-Feyerabend and Hill 2015 ). Inclusive and collaborative decision-making and respect for rights and diverse values are widely acknowledged in both science and policy as characteristics of good governance that underpin effective conservation (Ostrom 1990 ; CBD 2018 ; Agrawal et al. 2022 ; Chaplin-Kramer et al. 2023 ). IPs & LCs inhabit, manage and govern many land- and seascapes, resources and territories, in many cases having done so for generations, and have their own knowledge systems, comprising distinct worldviews, values, customary institutions and practices for relating to, conserving, restoring, or sustainably using nature (Corrigan et al. 2018 ).

There is great diversity among and between the world’s IPs & LCs and key distinctions are to be made between Indigenous, local and Western knowledge systems (Orlove et al. 2023 ). This means that studies pertaining to IPs & LCs and their roles in conservation require careful reflection on the values and the processes shaping the production of knowledge. Both conservation practice and science are political constructs which continue to be influenced by colonial logics. Among other things, they are often imbued with the Western values of organisations and actors in the Global North who dominate global conservation funding and decision-making (Adams and Mulligan 2012 ; Latulippe and Klenk 2020 ; Pascual et al. 2021 ). Conservation science influences practice profoundly, so it is important to reflect on the ways in which environmental orthodoxies and received wisdoms shape scientific findings and recommendations in order to help decolonise conservation science (Corbera et al. 2021 ).

The Global Biodiversity Framework explicitly calls for inclusive and equitable governance which recognises plural knowledge systems and the contribution made by IPs & LCs and their territories to conserving biodiversity (CBD 2022 ). There has been a progressive trend, particularly since the 1990s, towards the inclusion of indigenous knowledge in global conservation debates (Roué et al. 2022 ) and international policy (Brosius 2004 ; CBD 2018 , 2022 ). Social objectives and equitable governance principles have also found their way into conservation science (Zafra-Calvo et al. 2019 ). This push for more inclusion and recognition of Indigenous and local knowledge systems has emerged through social movements calling for greater respect and recognition for IPs & LCs, long-term decolonisation processes and shifts towards community-based management in some parts of the Global South (Dietz et al. 2003 ; Brosius 2004 ; Ulloa 2013 ). It has also increasingly been supported by extensive theoretical and empirical research into the qualities of governance that support positive ecological outcomes of conservation (Borrini-Feyerabend and Hill 2015 ; Witter and Satterfield 2019 ).

Interventions that displace, exclude, or marginalise IPs & LCs are now widely acknowledged to be poor long-term conservation strategies, as they fail to allow for collaborative conservation efforts based on value and knowledge pluralism (Ostrom 1990 ; Springer et al. 2011 ; Schreckenberg et al. 2016 ; Bhola et al. 2021 ). However, the conservation initiatives implemented across the globe continue to fall most commonly under the control of states, NGOs, and private companies, even when overlapping with ancestral territories or community lands. Many interventions labelled as community-based or participatory forms of conservation have been evidenced to involve relatively minimal influence of IPs & LCs (Kumar 2005 ; Calfucura 2018 ; Galvin et al. 2018 ; Apostolopoulou et al. 2021 ). The slow pace of change has led to increased calls for a more profound decolonisation of conservation practice, and of knowledge production (Grove 2016 ; Corbera et al. 2021 ; Krauss 2021 ; Mabele et al. 2022 ).

Lands highlighted as priority areas for conservation—likely to form part of a new wave of conservation and restoration areas—are homes, territories, and ancestral lands to vast numbers of people, many of them Indigenous or traditional, local communities, ethnic and cultural minorities (Wilder et al. 2016 ). Indeed, nearly 1.8 billion people live in biodiversity hotspots across the world. Conservation interventions are well positioned to either include and empower or displace and marginalise these people, their customary institutions, values, and their traditional ecological knowledge (Allan et al. 2022 ).

There is mounting evidence that conservation in which IPs & LCs play an influential or central role is related to more positive social-ecological outcomes (Brondizio and Tourneau 2016 ; Schleicher et al. 2017 ; Dawson et al. 2021 ; Huber et al. 2023 ). Accordingly, the definition of protected and conserved areas has been broadened to include some locally led interventions as Other Effective Conservation Measures (OECMs), and efforts are ongoing to augment the inclusion of Indigenous territories, the majority of which are located in the Global South, within global conservation monitoring databases (Gannon et al. 2019 ). Yet, the World Database on Protected Areas is highly geographically skewed, with approximately 80% of sites recorded, as of 2018, occurring in Europe and North America (UNEP-WCMC 2018 ). Whatever the reasons for this weak representation of the actual global distribution of conservation efforts and of different forms of interventions within monitoring data, these conspicuous gaps make it very difficult to ascertain the effect of progressive policy principles for inclusion and recognition of IPs & LCs on conservation practice, and the relative effect of different governance regimes, including IP & LC led initiatives, on conservation outcomes.

The data collected for global protected and conserved area monitoring have been primarily concerned with management effectiveness indicators for protection, enforcement, and use of financial resources. The effectiveness of conservation interventions, particularly in protected areas, has been shown to be partly influenced by factors including funding levels (Coad et al. 2019 ), management effectiveness factors such as planning and administration systems (Powlen et al. 2021 ), as well as national political factors supporting or compromising quality of conservation governance (Eklund et al. 2011 ). However, the lack of information officially and systematically recorded about governance dynamics and the social impacts of conservation, alongside the limited spread of locations and different types of governance, has precluded more nuanced analysis of the full range, and distribution, of conservation practices and associated ecological and social outcomes (Moreaux et al. 2018 ; Ghoddousi et al. 2022 ).

The increasing number of interdisciplinary scientific studies of conservation across the world represents a key body of knowledge through which to explore these questions, as it covers social and institutional aspects that are lacking in formal monitoring data as well as ecological status and trends. To date, few studies have taken stock of conservation practices and outcomes at an international scale, with most of those limited to specific intervention types or comparisons between contrasting forms of governance. Redford et al. ( 2003 ) performed one of the few global reviews of conservation practice and identified 21 different conservation approaches, though only considered approaches implemented by international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) from the Global North. Zhang et al. ( 2023 ) reviewed various types of literature comparing the effectiveness of protected areas managed by states and areas managed by IPs & LCs. Garnett et al. ( 2018 ) conducted a spatial analysis revealing the global extent and conservation importance of Indigenous lands, while Dawson et al. ( 2021 ) undertook a global review of empirical studies to compare the reported impacts of locally versus externally controlled conservation interventions.

Several reviews of academic or grey literature, and large-scale data analyses about conservation practices and outcomes have provided evidence on specific regions, ecosystems, conservation policies, or intervention types. These include community-based conservation projects (Brooks 2016 ), integrated conservation and development programmes (ICDPs) (Wells and McShane 2004 ), terrestrial and marine protected areas (Oldekop et al. 2016 ; Ban et al. 2019 ), forest conservation interventions (Börner et al. 2020 ) and governance across selected countries (Persha et al. 2011 ) including those in the Amazon (Schleicher et al. 2017 ). All of these studies highlight that governance quality plays a key role, and collectively they provide compelling evidence of a relationship between the extent of inclusion, respect for rights and authority of IPs & LCs, and the achievement of positive social and ecological outcomes.

Materials and methods

We synthesise the results from the analysis of a sample of 662 studies (Fig.  1 depicts the sampling process) that describe and explore conservation efforts at a single site, i.e. comprising a particular landscape, ecosystem, habitat, or socially or administratively defined single area of conservation interest. The pool of studies was obtained through a keyword search, in English, on Web of Science, which returned 69 246 publications (See Supplementary Text S1 ). Following a pilot screening phase using 100 articles to test and refine the review protocol (Supplementary Table S1 ), a first screening of titles and abstracts was conducted between March 2020 and March 2021 by four of the authors using the open-access machine learning assisted software Colandr, which facilitates ordering of the sample publications by relevance. Among other things, Colandr enables selection of relevant publications from a large sample to become a realistic endeavour, as a reasoned cut-off rate can be applied so that only a small percentage of the entire sample need to be screened (Cheng et al. 2018 ). Titles and abstracts were screened and the machine learning software began to place the most relevant publications first. This ordering for relevance helped our inclusion rate to rise, reaching a peak of 18% included, for the 1000 publications screened between 3000 and 4000 (Figure S1 ). We set a cut-off rate to end the screening process of 3% included in the previous 1000, as a falling inclusion rate would suggest that the next 1000 would yield less than 30 additional papers. We reached this rate after screening 11 100, or 16% of the total number of screened studies. A sample of 1054 publications had been included by this stage (Fig.  1 ), and the steep decline in the inclusion rate suggested this was a pragmatic and justifiable cut-off to balance researcher time and sample size (Figure S1 ). The criteria for inclusion applied during screening were: (1) the study is about biodiversity conservation; (2) the study describes a deliberate intervention; (3) the study provides empirical evidence; (4) the conservation intervention takes place in a defined single site (studies based on multiple separate areas, or entire regions or countries comprising many ecosystems and landscapes were excluded) through a defined actor, group or organisation; (5) the study identifies a discernible conservation aim (whether the primary objective or not), and; (6) the study identifies a discernible conservation approach (Supplementary Information, Table S1 ).

Flowchart of sample selection process leading to eventual sample size of 662 publications

We sought to include a range of conservation actions driven by a range of actors and we included any conservation-oriented initiative, as long as the criteria above were sufficiently met and described in the published study. The included types of conservation initiative spanned land, resource, habitat or species management, area protection, livelihoods and tourism programmes, sustainable use regulations or norms, financial incentives, compensation, education and capacity building, as well as local stewardship and traditional or customary management and practices.

Prior to data extraction, we conducted a training session and detailed collective coding exercise with ten papers to establish consensus about coding criteria and harmonise coding practices between eight of the authors and to refine the datasheet. Each case was then coded by a single researcher between March 2021 and March 2022, though the lead author worked with each of the coders to address any ambiguities about inclusion, categorisation, or data recording. The same exclusion criteria were applied during full review, with additional quality control to exclude papers lacking clear and appropriate methods, which resulted in a further 331 publications omitted (Fig.  1 ). For the analysis presented here, we also removed 61 cases about conservation interventions initiated before 1970, as they were spread very thinly back to 1800, and we decided to focus the analysis more concretely on the last 50 years of conservation practice, through the remaining 662 publications, each representing a conservation case study (Fig.  1 ). The data extraction from the final sample of 662 enabled us to capture and synthesise the study site and lead author locations and affiliations, different types of interventions, initiatives or practices being implemented, the extent of influence of IPs & LCs in conservation governance, and the associated social and ecological outcomes (Table  1 ).

To address the question of who produces conservation science (in English-language journals) and about which places, we explored the affiliations of lead authors of the studies and categorised them by country, continent and Global North or South (See Text S2 for definition used), and did likewise for the locations of case studies. To identify any potential conflicts of interest between the research behind the published studies and the conservation interventions being studied, we captured the affiliations of lead authors and also any funding declared as having supported the study, and noted where these overlapped with the conservation intervention of focus or whether any given interest was declared explicitly (Text S2 ). Following coding of all the cases, quality control and harmonisation of formatting for data entered was conducted by the lead author.

To detect potential temporal trends in the types of conservation interventions studied, the extent of IP & LC influence in conservation governance across those cases, and the social and ecological outcomes reportedly associated with them, we conducted Mann–Kendall tests in the package “Kendall” (McLeod 2022 ) in R Version 4.2.1 (R Development Core Team 2009 ), with each variable category as independent trendline. This was in part a data exploration exercise to inform the role of time as a variable in the regression analysis which followed. We did not assume this sample of empirical studies would indicate trends that are representative of changes in global conservation practice, in part because the locations selected and the trends in characteristics of interventions studied may be influenced by researcher interests and reporting. However, if the trend analysis highlighted any significant shifts in intervention types studied, the extent of IP & LC influence or outcomes reported, this could indicate a possible shift to be explored further and corroborated. Additionally, our literature search and screening led to the inclusion of 64 cases about multigenerational customary forms of conservation governance, involving forms of long-term stewardship by IPs & LCs and high levels of local control over natural resources. This subsample contains relevant information regarding the forms of knowledge, management, and governance systems. However, they could not be included within the trend analysis because no year could be assigned to the start of those interventions.

We recognise the important distinction between Indigenous Peoples and different types of local communities, in terms of their rights, roles in and contributions to conservation, their historical experiences and impacts, and the distinction between their knowledge systems (Orlove et al. 2023 ). For this systematic review, however, we included a wide range of types of people and communities under the umbrella acronym ‘IPs & LCs’. This is primarily driven by the sampled publications, which detailed impacts upon and the extent of influence of different Indigenous Peoples and non-Indigenous local communities, yet in many cases treated them as a single group of affected communities, or did not sufficiently detail their identities, histories, values, institutions or extent of political recognition to enable accurate distinctions to be made, particularly between traditional local communities and non-traditional local communities.

Ecological outcomes were reported in 235 of the 662 cases, through: biophysical data (22%); data on human actions impacting biodiversity (e.g. logging in forests, or trawl fishing) or perceptions about ecological outcomes (42%) or; both (36%). Social outcomes were reported in 321 of the cases, through: material social impacts such as change in income (10%); material outcomes plus an additional element, such as the extent of influence over decision-making or political empowerment (56%) or; an assessment giving attention to a range of possible material, social, cultural and political impacts and outcomes, which we refer to as a holistic social assessment (34%). 118 studies reported both social and ecological outcomes, meaning that 438 of the 662 publications reported either social or ecological outcomes or both, while the remaining 224 cases reported neither, and were therefore omitted from the outcomes analysis. The authors of studies not presenting data on outcomes focused on many different aspects including governance, values, knowledge, social dynamics, attitudes towards or perceptions of aspects of conservation other than outcomes.

We applied ordinal logistic regressions with ecological and social outcomes as response variables to model the relationships to the following explanatory variables: the type of intervention; the extent of influence of IPs & LCs in conservation governance; the lead author’s affiliation with an institution located in the Global South or North; the location of the conservation intervention in the Global South or North; and any identified potential conflict of interest due to the study´s funding or author affiliations being connected to the intervention in question. The 64 cases of multigenerational customary forms of governance were included in the sample for the regression analysis. The response variables for social and ecological outcomes were initially coded as negative, mixed, or positive and recoded ordinally as 0, 1, and 2, respectively, for analysis. Analyses were conducted with the package “ordinal” (Christensen 2023 ) and presented using the package “stargazer” (Hlavac 2022 ) in R Development Core Team ( 2009 ).

Prior to running regression models, we performed Cramer V tests to ensure the explanatory variables were not strongly associated with one another. We interpret association Φ-values of less than 0.5 to indicate a moderate association. All association values were below 0.5, with most exhibiting weak associations through Φ-values of less than 0.2. The two exceptions were the lead author affiliation and the study location (Global North or Global South), which were moderately positively associated (Φ-value = 0.293), and the intervention type and extent of influence of IPs & LCs in governance, which also showed a positive association (Φ-value = 0.499). The types of intervention such as stewardship, implicitly involve some level of influence of IPs & LCs in management, which we expect in most cases to be reflected in governance processes by at least partial involvement. Likewise, initiatives solely based on protection of an area or species are likely to involve lower levels of influence of IPs & LCs. However, the moderate association shows that these are not highly correlated through a Φ-value from 0.6 to 1, and so we took this as indication that both variables could be included within the regression models.

Knowledge production in conservation science

From the analysed cases, the sites of conservation interventions were spread across 102 countries (Fig.  2 ), primarily located in the Global South (83% of total cases): Africa ( n  = 220 across 30 countries), Asia ( n  = 208, 24 countries) and Latin America ( n  = 124, 18 countries), with Europe, North America, and Oceania making up the remaining cases ( n  = 110 and 30 countries).

Map showing the number of reviewed cases of site-level conservation by country

Ecosystems in which those interventions took place include forests ( n  = 290), coastal or marine realms ( n  = 106), rivers or wetlands ( n  = 78), savannah or dry forests ( n  = 65), mountains ( n  = 49), and grasslands, cultivated land, drylands, and other ecosystems ( n  = 74 combined).

Our results reveal a stark inequality in the production of knowledge between Global North and Global South. Most studies focused on locations in the Global South (83%); however, most of the lead authors of those studies were affiliated with research institutions in the Global North (64%), particularly from North America and Europe (Fig.  3 ). In contrast, not a single lead author from Asia, Africa, Latin America, or Oceania led a study of a conservation initiative in Europe, North America, Australia, or New Zealand. The proportion of conservation initiatives in Africa, Asia, and Latin America that were the subject of studies led by authors from those respective continents appears to have increased slightly in the most recent years, particularly from 2010 to 2020 (Fig.  4 ). The relationship is unclear for the period 2000 to 2010 for all three continents, possibly because the sample sizes were relatively small for those years, with commonly five or less publications per annum.

Origin of lead author affiliations relative to case study locations, by continent or group of countries, with sample sizes shown in brackets

Proportion of the case studies of conservation interventions in Africa, Asia, and Latin America written by lead authors affiliated to organisations in the same continent (total 93 out of 220 for Africa, 114 out of 208 for Asia, and 40 out of 124 for Latin America). Data are displayed by year ranging from 2000 to 2020

The results from the regression analysis suggest that when studies are led by authors from the Global South, there is a weak positive influence on reported ecological outcomes ( p -value < 0.1). When case studies were located in the Global South, we found a significant negative influence on reported ecological outcomes ( p -value < 0.05).

We identified 94 publications (14% of all reviewed studies) with a potential conflict of interest (see also Table  1 and description of methods above). The data suggest that studies exhibiting a potential conflict of interest through their funding or author affiliation are far more likely to report both better ecological and social outcomes (regression analysis presented later in results shows this to be statistically significant, p  < 0.01, Table  2 ). Concurrently positive social and ecological outcomes were reported in 65% of cases with a potential conflict of interest, compared to 30% of cases in which no conflict of interest was identified (Fig.  5 ). Crucially, the proportion of cases exhibiting a potential conflict of interest and reporting jointly positive social and ecological outcomes is consistent across categories for the level of influence of IPs & LCs (ranging from 50 to 64% and highest for those with partial involvement). We have no specific grounds to question the findings of any particular study. However, across all case studies with an identified potential conflict of interest, the collective propensity to record positive outcomes equally across governance categories contrasts markedly with the studies with no identified conflict of interest, which reported joint positive outcomes in 0% of cases with no IP & LC involvement, just 19% for those with partial IP & LC involvement and ranging up to 59% for the locally led category. Therefore, it appears prudent to also run the regression analysis after removing the cases with a potential conflict of interest from the sample. Removing these cases reinforced (though did not substantially alter) the significantly positive influence that leadership by IPs & LCs (having primary control over an initiative) has on both the reported ecological and social outcomes ( p -value < 0.01, Supplementary Information, Table S2 ).

Comparison of the combination of social and ecological outcomes reported a through studies with a potential conflict of interest and b those without

Temporal trends in conservation initiatives, governance, and outcomes

The changes in the conservation types observed and outcomes recorded over the five-decade (1970–2019) period from the analysed sample of published studies are shown in Fig.  6 , broken down into ecological and social outcomes (Table  1 , Fig.  6 a, b), the type of conservation intervention (Table  1 , Fig.  6 c) and the level of influence of IPs & LCs in governance (Table  1 , Fig.  6 d). Initiatives focused solely on protection or restoration formed less than a quarter of cases in any decade, with the largest proportion (44%) involving livelihoods, tourism, or capacity building projects followed by initiatives involving management through the stewardship of IPs & LCs (35%). No clear or significant temporal trends were noted over the five decades; however, initiatives based on financial incentives or compensation for IPs & LCs increased steadily over time as a share of the studies sampled.

Temporal trends in a ecological outcomes, b social outcomes, c intervention types, and d extent of influence of IPs & LCs in conservation governance, as recorded in the 662 published studies reviewed, and displayed as a proportion of the 662 conservation interventions they describe. Note that because the cases based on multiple generations of customary institutions have no discernible year of inception, they could not be grouped within a decade so are displayed separately from the depicted trends and labelled as ‘multigenerational’. The asterisk (*) indicates a significant Mann-Kendal trend test for positive ecological outcomes (tests for all other variables are non-significant)

Across the five decades, the share of studies reporting positive ecological outcomes increased significantly over time (Fig.  6 a, Mann–Kendall trend: tau = 1; 2-sided p -value = 0.027) while trends were non-significant for all other variables. This increasing trend was such that more than half of the studies documenting interventions initiated between 2000 and 2009 reported positive ecological outcomes, rising to 61% for interventions starting between 2010 and 2019. It is important to note though that the trend does not necessarily demonstrate a general improvement in the effectiveness of conservation over time, for example, because it might reflect a tendency for scientists and academic journals to publish studies where positive outcomes are more apparent than not. A far higher proportion of studies reported positive ecological outcomes than positive social outcomes (Table  1 , Fig.  6 a, b).

Factors influencing outcomes of conservation practice

With regard to the type of conservation intervention, the results from the regression analysis suggest that the interventions associated with stewardship by IPs & LCs have a positive but weak effect on social outcomes relative to interventions focused solely on nature protection or restoration ( p -value < 0.1). Interventions involving incentives or compensation for IPs & LCs exhibit a weak positive effect on ecological outcomes ( p -value < 0.1).

The extent of influence of IPs & LCs in conservation governance shows a greater influence on both social and ecological outcomes. Specifically, the data suggest that the local leadership of conservation by IPs & LCs has a significant influence on the likelihood of achieving more positive ecological outcomes ( p -value < 0.01) and more positive social outcomes ( p -value < 0.01), compared to interventions where IPs & LCs are not involved in conservation governance and practices (Table  2 ). In addition, a partial involvement of IPs & LCs in governance also shows positive influence on social outcomes relative to cases where IPs & LCs are not involved at all ( p -value < 0.01), though the influence on ecological outcomes is not statistically significant (see Table  2 ). To provide an illustrative example from the sample studies, Araos et al. ( 2020 ) detail how a social movement drove the establishment of the Los Lagos Indigenous Marine Areas in Chile in 2012, which produced positive social and ecological outcomes in reaction to, and relative to, the rapid degradation caused through widespread commercial Atlantic salmon farming. In a contrasting case, Kusumawati and Visser ( 2014 ) detail how the Berau Marine Conservation Area in Sulawesi, Indonesia, had to be annulled only five years after its 2005 inception due to the lack of local communities’ involvement and displacement of customary institutions.

Our systematic review, resulting in the analysis of 662 published empirical studies of site-level conservation, enables reflection on aspects of knowledge production in conservation science. The issues and inequalities raised in the analysis imply the need for exploratory and decolonial approaches to studying conservation, considering diverse actors, plural knowledge systems, experiences, and practices beyond Western scientific logics and narratives. Although we are limited by the research approaches within the sample publications, we developed a broad, novel dataset containing a wide array of conservation initiatives and comprising a relatively complete spectrum of possible power relations and allocation of rights and responsibilities (see Coolsaet and Dawson 2023 ). The role of IPs & LCs ranges from exclusion to partial involvement as participants, stakeholders, or partners, and through to primary or complete control over governance of an ecosystem or landscape.

Our analysis of the social and ecological outcomes recorded for those widely differing forms of conservation reveals that local control and recognition of IP & LC institutions are strongly associated with more positive outcomes for people and nature. This is in line with findings from a growing number of studies at different scales and employing varying methods, for Indigenous territorial governance particularly, but also for customary and more contemporary local institutions (Persha et al. 2011 ; Corrigan et al. 2018 ; Börner et al. 2020 ; Benzeev et al. 2023 ; Zhang et al. 2023 ).

Our sample captured far more studies from the Global South than North. Our search terms were designed to be inclusive and not discriminatory. Our inclusion criteria demanded a depth of focus to detail the objectives and approach being taken in a locality. It is possible that the design and implementation of conservation receive more research scrutiny in the Global South (Barrett et al. 2013 ; Murdock 2021 ). We found relatively negative ecological outcomes reported from the Global South, perhaps due to higher rates of land-use intensification and change or greater tradeoffs or opportunity costs of conservation, and this provides a potential justification for the disproportionate scientific attention. Certainly, many North American and European researchers study cases in the Global South rather than within their own country or continent, with negligible exchange in the other direction. Decolonial scholarship has long highlighted the tendency of reducing Southern contexts to the “empirical” or the material (see e.g. de Sousa Santos 2015 ), and this persistent inequality, reflected also in the publishing system, research funding streams and global economic and geopolitical dynamics, may explain the bias towards Global South case studies by Global North researchers. Additionally, disciplinary differences may contribute—many of the studies of conservation in the Global North excluded during abstract screening were very specific biological or economic studies which failed to provide sufficient depth or focus on the conservation aims and approach to be included. Whatever the reasons, specific efforts are required to increase Global South-led conservation science through better funding availability, publishing options, and leadership roles in international partnerships to researchers and institutions in the Global South.

Our review highlighted a prevalence of independence issues in empirical studies. Within the analysed sample, almost one in seven studies exhibit a potential conflict of interest between author affiliations or research funding with the conservation intervention. Relative to the remainder of the sample, this subset has a significant direction of bias towards reporting more positive social and ecological outcomes (Figure S3 , Table S2 ), with proportionately more success reported for initiatives excluding or only partially involving IPs & LCs relative to studies without an identified conflict of interest. Several studies have highlighted the lack of work about failures in conservation science and the negative impacts this has on progressive change inspired by lessons learned (Catalano et al. 2019 ; Chambers et al. 2022 ). Mostly, the biases we identified may serve to exaggerate the success of mainstream practices and support the status quo in conservation governance. For example, this can imply that the achievement of positive outcomes is possible through factors like funding allocation, regardless of whether an intervention is exclusive of or led by IPs & LCs, whereas the leadership of IPs & LCs is clearly highlighted as the primary influence on conservation effectiveness by independent studies. The reporting bias may also arise because the researchers actively or subconsciously seek to placate organisations and funders, or only publish work if they have a positive message to communicate (Pillay et al. 2020 ). Whatever the reason, conflicts of interest as well as funding and resource inequalities are clearly an issue within conservation science, deserving targeted scrutiny due to the potential to reinforce unequal power relations, to obscure lessons and misguide policy and practice.

Our analysis of a wide range of site-level conservation initiatives over five decades reveals that conservation interventions led by IPs & LCs are reported through empirical research to produce significantly better ecological and social outcomes than those which either exclude them or enable only partial involvement (Table  2 ). The extent of control by IPs & LCs, and recognition of their customary or local institutions and knowledge, appears to be a key characteristic of governance influencing conservation success, and therefore a governance quality that all conservation actors should engage in working collaboratively towards. The data and findings relate to any form of intervention, whether protected areas, restoration, sustainable use, or incentive schemes, irrespective of the mix of stakeholders involved, and regardless of the region or type of ecosystem where conservation takes place.

These findings have implications for how to pursue the ambitious 2030 targets for conservation and restoration in the CBD’s Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (CBD 2022 ). The principles of equitable governance and recognition for IPs & LCs are already well aligned with standards in conservation conventions, policies, organisations, and programmes (CBD 2018 , 2022 ), but a disconnect has endured between this rhetoric and the practices being implemented on the ground (Tauli-Corpuz et al. 2020 ). Our findings imply that if IPs & LCs play only a marginal role in various conservation projects initiated to meet the Global Biodiversity Framework’s targets for 2030 and beyond, there is considerable risk they will have limited success in curbing biodiversity loss, because conservation dominated by external actors lacks the qualities of governance most appropriate to generate positive outcomes for people and nature (Reyes-García et al. 2022 ).

The exclusion or minimal role of IPs & LCs as consultees or stakeholders, and inattention to local tenure security and institutions, is entrenched in many conservation practices, alongside ideas that conservation expertise lies with external actors (Woodhouse et al. 2022 ). While we can envision cases where decision makers would argue and perceive that the exclusion, displacement, or marginal roles of IPs & LCs are “necessary”, e.g. to protect rights of nature, neither policy norms nor scientific evidence supports such practices and offers no justification for normalising exclusionary forms of conservation or situations where states and external actors dictate decision-making (Rights and Resources Initiative 2020 ). In many locations around the world, IPs & LCs are those who take on considerable burdens and risks to act as environmental or rights defenders protesting against environmentally harmful laws, policies, projects, and actions (Boyd and Keene 2021 ; Cariño and Ferrari 2021 ).

To drive a change in conservation effectiveness and social justice, the character and quality of governance, at multiple scales, must become a guiding objective (Pascual et al. 2022 ). Conservation governance is not a simple choice between types based on who has ultimate control—actors’ interests vary widely, conservation objectives almost always include social as well as ecological aims, and there are plural knowledge systems to collaborate across, meaning that governance processes are complex, dynamic, and negotiated (Pascual et al. 2021 , 2022 ; Droz et al. 2023 ). It is important to emphasise that rapid switches in governance types and power relations, for example, from state control to Indigenous or local autonomy, are unlikely to realise a rapid upturn in results without considerable support to build, strengthen, or reinforce local and customary institutions. Rather, it is in the interests of all conservation actors to engage in collaborative efforts to pursue more equitable conservation by enhancing the roles and recognition of IPs’ & LCs’ authority in conservation governance—in policies, projects and in local actions and interactions—through strategies adapted to the social, political, and environmental context and the resources and institutional strengths of IPs & LCs who live there (Borrini-Feyerabend and Hill 2015 ; Armitage et al. 2020 ; Dawson et al. 2023 ).

These standards of governance do not only apply to entirely new interventions to meet the Global Biodiversity Framework targets for 2030, but equally apply to existing interventions, and to areas of importance for biodiversity which lie outside officially recorded protected and conserved areas. Crucially, supporting and enabling the positive impacts of Indigenous and locally led conservation require political and legislative transformations at national and sub-national levels in order to counter the structural barriers caused by state control over natural resources, land tenure, and other entrenched colonial power dynamics (Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact et al. 2022 ). Global progress in this direction is patchy—in the five years prior to 2023, policies supporting Indigenous territorial rights as pathways to conserve biodiversity have had impacts in Canada and New Zealand, but were concurrently eroded in other countries through political obstruction and discrimination, for example, in Brazil (Artelle et al. 2019 ; Karjoko et al. 2021 ). It is important to note that the historic injustices, extent of recognition or discrimination, relationships, forms of representation and pathways to change can be quite different for Indigenous Peoples relative to local communities and to traditional communities among them.

Our review analysis has some limitations. First, our focus on studies published in English leads to geographic bias. The large proportion of cases from Tanzania in particular has been noted in other studies and reflects the high number, diversity, and coverage of conservation interventions there (Riggio et al. 2019 ; Apostolopoulou et al. 2021 ). Second, English-language peer-reviewed literature shows bias towards work by researchers from the Global North and may overlook the work of academics, civil society researchers, as well as Indigenous scholars that better reflect non-western knowledge systems and issues relating to power, race, gender, and culture (Karlsson et al. 2007 ; Asase et al. 2022 ; Droz et al. 2023 ). Especially in Tanzania, the production of conservation knowledge is dominated by foreign academics over local scholarship (Mabele et al. 2023 ). Third, only a small proportion of peer-reviewed studies provide sufficient information about the aims, actors involved and approach associated with an intervention, as well as the associated social and/or ecological outcomes, which restricts the size of the sample, particularly for analyses of factors associated with certain outcomes. Based on the observed lack of holistic approaches to assess conservation governance and outcomes, more interdisciplinary studies and dedicated funding streams are required to enable improved and more holistic assessments of conservation practice.

We treated all IPs & LCs as a single group for our analyses, despite recognising the important distinctions between Indigenous Peoples, traditional local communities, and non-traditional local communities. The Intergovernmental Platform for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) limits the definition of IPs & LCs to include communities who self-identify as Indigenous and hold distinct rights, in addition to local communities who maintain inter-generational connections to place and nature through customary values, institutions and practices—while emphasising that each category is very diverse as well as distinct in key ways (Watson et al. 2019 ). However, for this study we also included non-traditional local communities who do not hold customary, place-based values and related institutions, whether because they have experienced disruption to them, been displaced or they represent more recently formed communities comprising people from diverse places and with diverse identities. This latter group can nonetheless form and exhibit shared values, connections to place and nature, meaning they can experience various social impacts from conservation and also seek to contribute to, establish and revitalise institutions and practices for sustainable management (Bunch 2016 ; Murphy et al. 2019 ).

Indigenous Peoples were specifically mentioned as being affected by or involved in 24% of the 662 initiatives, though not always separately from local communities. The distinction was best described in studies of initiatives based upon Indigenous or local institutions, though much less so for those externally controlled and involving only participation by or exclusion of IPs & LCs. Future studies may develop greater understanding of the differences their disaggregation may mean for the relationships we found and the social characteristics and governance dynamics influencing them.

Finally, our relatively small sample size, while providing a fair representation of conservation science, may follow researcher preferences and research funding and publishing trends that are not representative of conservation practice more generally. This is especially true as most Indigenous and community conservation endeavours go unstudied by the western scientific gaze, take place with or without structural support, and consequently are published in reports as opposed to peer-reviewed journals (Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact et al. 2022 ). However, our dataset is still of sufficient size and breadth to capture a diversity of on the ground conservation interventions, governance types, and a wider range of outcomes than global conservation monitoring platforms cover, which enables a more exploratory reflection on the implementation of conservation over the long term, with novel insights for how best to pursue social and ecological goals in tandem.

Our review has clear implications for both conservation science and practice: to pay greater attention to Global South perspectives and ensure they gain greater representation in the production of knowledge regarding biodiversity conservation practice and governance, and to pay attention to potential conflicts of interest between science and practice, which may reinforce common assumptions about who drives conservation success and act as a barrier to transformation towards Indigenous, local, and Global South leadership. Science and practice are closely linked and must both provide increased consideration to, inclusion of and collaboration across plural knowledge systems and diverse ways of knowing and conserving. This is in accordance with calls to place, empower, revitalise, and support Indigenous knowledge systems or local knowledge systems at the centre of conservation strategies with embedded objectives and interactions supporting decolonisation (Latulippe and Klenk 2020 ; Apostolopoulou et al. 2021 ; Corbera et al. 2021 ; Krauss 2021 ; Rodriguez 2022 ; Orlove et al. 2023 ).

Amid the rapid scaling up of conservation driven by the Global Biodiversity Framework 2030 targets, it is crucial that long-term evidence drawing from the full diversity of conservation efforts is used to guide necessary changes in practice, through collaborative efforts to enhance governance and conservation effectiveness. Critical scientific studies exploring and synthesising this evidence base (including this review) consistently find that to conserve nature most effectively, and to concurrently meet standards for IP & LC rights and social justice, conservation practice must take a step change to ensure IPs & LCs are empowered, recognised as authorities, and able to apply and revitalise their own knowledge and institutions to sustain both nature and people.

Data availability

The dataset for this study is available at Zenodo https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7688777 .

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Acknowledgements

This study was funded by the Centre for the Synthesis and Analysis of Biodiversity (CESAB) of the French Foundation for Research on Biodiversity (FRB) under the Just Conservation project. Additional support was provided by Lille Catholic University under the AMBROISE funding call. JL acknowledges funding by the Robert-Bosch foundation for the project “Wildlife, Values, Justice”. UP acknowledges BC3’s Maria de Maeztu excellence accreditation 2023-2026 (Ref. CEX2021-001201- M) provided by MCIN/AEI/ https://doi.org/10.13039/501100011033 . The authors are grateful to Dan Brockington and an anonymous reviewer for their thorough and thoughtful reviews.

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Dawson, N.M., Coolsaet, B., Bhardwaj, A. et al. Reviewing the science on 50 years of conservation: Knowledge production biases and lessons for practice. Ambio (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13280-024-02049-w

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The effect of engagement in private lands research on landowner conservation knowledge, attitudes, awareness, and behavioral intentions

• Rebecca S. M. O’Brien , William A. Hopkins , A. Dayer
• Published in Human Dimensions of Wildlife 17 July 2024
• Environmental Science, Sociology

33 References

Private landowners perceive positive impacts to their land stewardship following involvement in a conservation research program, identifying key federal, state, and private lands strategies for achieving 30 × 30 in the united states, understanding landowner decisions regarding access to private land for conservation research, replacing “parachute science” with “global science” in ecology and conservation biology, adoption of agricultural conservation practices in the united states: evidence from 35 years of quantitative literature, private lands conservation: a vision for the future, the emergence of private land conservation in scientific literature: a review, a global deal for nature: guiding principles, milestones, and targets, landscapes that work for biodiversity and people, effects of biological monitoring and results outreach on private landowner conservation management, related papers.

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Conservation of Forest Essay

The conservation of forest essay is a useful learning resource for kids to understand the value of forests and wildlife. Forests are important to us. They provide air and water, absorb carbon dioxide, protect us from natural disasters, and house many of our wild animals. Hence, it is our duty to conserve them.

Due to human activities, the world is losing its forests. If we do not take action now, we will lose them forever. The continuing destruction of our forests is both a cause and consequence of climate change. This destroys the habitat of many plant and animal species that cannot adapt to changing conditions. Unfortunately, the trend toward extinction has been accelerated with the recent introduction of exotic species, which have caused millions of trees and other species to be lost or destroyed. We must preserve the environment for future generations, and all of us need to do our part in conserving what is left by keeping invasive species at bay.

To protect the environment, we have to reduce our carbon footprint. Minimising food waste is one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint. It is also important for us to care about our wildlife and forests through awareness programmes on the importance of protecting them. The conservation of forest and wildlife essay is a great way to teach kids the significance of coexisting with nature and protecting its elements.

Importance of Conservation of Forests and Wildlife

The conservation of forest essay keeps your little ones engaged in learning the significance of protecting nature and wild animals. Conservation implies preserving something or maintaining it to keep it alive. People have concerns about preserving forests and wildlife because of the need for trees, which is why many people save a fallen tree from being chopped down by cutting it into logs.

Since forests are home to many species, it’s vital to preserve them because it is where animals can escape from danger and find food, water, and shelter. Moreover, forests contribute to climate stability and provide food for animals who live there or depend on them for their livelihoods.

The Earth is full of species, and it is our responsibility to take care of them. Some animals need conservation as they are facing the threat of extinction. The more we help these animals, the better the planet will be. Also, the conservation of forest essay PDF helps create awareness among kids so that they can take the necessary steps to protect our planet.

With the Earth’s resources being depleted, protecting our wildlife and nature is crucial. Conservation of wildlife has a lot of benefits to society that many people are unaware of, and it also helps the environment by reducing pollution and protecting endangered species.

You can find more essays similar to the conservation of forest essay on BYJU’S website. Also, explore a range of kid-friendly learning resources, such as short stories, poems, worksheets, etc., for young learners on the website.

Frequently Asked Questions on Conservation of Forest Essay

Does deforestation affect climate change.

Yes. Deforestation affects climate change, as it increases the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which leads to a rise in atmospheric temperature.

Why is it important to conserve wildlife and forests?

It’s important to preserve wildlife and forests because animals can escape from danger and find food, water, and shelter. Moreover, forests contribute to climate stability and provide food for animals who live there or depend on them for their livelihoods.

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Conservation of Forest Essay

Forests are integral to the environment—they provide us with air, water and food; they help protect against floods and other natural disasters. But forests are also under threat—from illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and deforestation. We must take steps to conserve our forests if we hope to avoid the consequences of their destruction. Here are a few sample essays on ‘conservation of forest’.

100 Words Essay On Forest Conservation

200 words essay on forest conservation, 500 words essay on forest conservation, factors responsible deforestation.

Forests are one of the most important natural resources on the planet. They provide us with food, fuel, and shelter, as well as many other products that we use in our everyday lives. Forests also play a vital role in regulating the Earth’s climate and maintaining biodiversity. Despite all of these benefits, forests are being destroyed at an alarming rate. According to the World Wildlife Fund, forest cover has decreased from 30% of the world’s land surface in 1950 to just 6% today. The main cause of this loss is deforestation, which is often done to clear land for agriculture or other development projects.

The loss of forests has serious consequences for both people and the environment. For example, forests help regulate global temperatures by absorbing carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) from the atmosphere. As more forests are lost, there is less vegetation to absorb this gas, leading to an increase in atmospheric CO2 levels and a corresponding rise in global temperatures. This climate change can have devastating effects on ecosystems and human societies around the world.

Many species find their natural home in the forest. This habitat must be protected because it provides animals with a safe haven where they can find food, water, and shelter while avoiding danger. Additionally, woods support a stable temperature and give food to animals that dwell in them or rely on them for survival.

There are many different species on the planet, and it is our duty to protect them. While some animals are endangered and in risk of extinction, others require conservation. The planet will be better off the more we can do to help these animals. It is essential to conserve our species and the environment because the Earth's resources are running out. Many individuals are ignorant of the several advantages of wildlife conservation for society. It also aids the environment by lowering pollution and safeguarding endangered species.

Forests are essential for the sustenance of life on this planet. They provide us with air and water, remove carbon dioxide, shield us from natural calamities, and shelter a large number of our wild creatures. Unfortunately, forests are disappearing from the planet. We will lose them forever if we do nothing now.

Climate change is both a cause and a result of the ongoing degradation of our forests. This damages the habitat of many plant and animal species that are unable to adapt to changing environmental conditions. The ecosystem must be protected for future generations, and we must all do our share to protect it.

There are various factors responsible for the destruction of forests. Some of the important factors are as follows:

Population Pressure | Population growth is one of the important factors responsible for the destruction of forests. With the increase in population, there is an increasing demand for forest resources like timber, fuelwood, etc. This has led to the large-scale cutting of trees and the destruction of forests.

Agricultural expansion | Agricultural expansion is another major factor responsible for the destruction of forests. In order to expand agricultural land, people clear forests and convert them into fields. This leads to large-scale deforestation and loss of forests.

Grazing | Grazing is one of the important reasons for the degradation of forests. When livestock graze in a forested area, they damage vegetation and soil structure, leading to soil erosion and loss of fertility. This eventually leads to the loss of forest cover.

Mining | Mining is another major factor responsible for forest destruction. Mining activities lead to deforestation as well as soil and water pollution, which damages the environment and destroys forests.

Industrialization | Industrialization is another significant factor that contributes to Forest destruction. The establishment of industries requires a large amount of land, which results in deforestation. Additionally, industries release harmful pollutants into the air and water, which pollute the environment and destroy forests

How We Can Help

It is essential that we take steps to protect our remaining forests and prevent further deforestation. Here is how we can protect our forests—

One way to do this is through forest conservation, which is the practice of protecting forested areas and managing them in a sustainable way. Conservation efforts can include creating protected areas, such as national parks, or working with local communities to promote sustainable forestry practices.

One of the most important ways we can conserve forests is by using less paper. We can do this by recycling the paper we use, using both sides of the paper when we print or copy, and avoiding excessive printing.

In addition to using less paper, we can also help conserve forests by using products made from recycled paper or from sustainably grown trees. When we buy products made from recycled paper, we are helping to create a market for this type of paper, which encourages manufacturers to use more recycled content. Similarly, when we choose products made from sustainably grown trees, we are supporting forestry practices that help protect our forests.

Finally, we can also help conserve forests simply by enjoying them. Getting out into nature and appreciating the beauty of the forest helps us to value these ecosystems and motivates us to work towards their protection.

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Short on funds and long on risk, Venezuelan conservation groups worry for future

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• Venezuela’s economic and political crises have driven away many international donors, leaving conservation groups without enough funding to sustain their operations.
• Widespread corruption and organized crime, as well as government hostility to foreign civil society organizations, has made it too dangerous for many conservation groups to carry out fieldwork in the country.
• Should President Nicolás Maduro win reelection later this month, conservation groups say the already dire situation could deteriorate even further.

Conservation has become a near-impossible task in many parts of Venezuela.

Government funding has dried up, political pressure has scared away international donors, and criminal groups continue to overpower the areas where the worst deforestation is happening. As the country prepares for an election at the end of the month — one that could be rigged in the ruling party’s favor — many environmental groups are quietly wondering how they’re going to survive another six years under President Nicolás Maduro.

“Environmental organizations, as well as Indigenous leaders, are finding it increasingly difficult to do their work,” said Olnar Ortiz, national coordinator for the Indigenous Peoples Penal Forum, a legal aid NGO. “It’s really difficult to go [to Venezuela] yourself because of the security issues and how hard it is to get access.”

In recent years, the Maduro government has become even more hostile to NGOs, intergovernmental groups and nonprofits. In February, a U.N. human rights agency was expelled for alleged dissident behavior. Last year, the head of the Red Cross was removed by the Supreme Court. While environmental groups can sometimes stay out of government crosshairs by doing less controversial work, such as in biodiversity, they still have to be careful, several groups told Mongabay.

On the coast, even trying to clean up oil spills can be a prickly subject for the government. Groups have been blocked from cleanup efforts, presumably because it would expose the true environmental impact of the accidents and shine a light on government negligence. Researchers trying to study the impacts of oil spills have resorted to monitoring satellite images because they can’t do fieldwork.

Under Maduro, Venezuela has spiraled into an economic crisis marked by hyperinflation , food scarcity and the outmigration of more than 7.7 million people. Millions of residents survive on less than $100 a month. Conservation isn’t a priority in the national budget, let alone for state or local governments. Conservation groups have had to shift their expectations away from the public funding that was all but guaranteed in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Back then, the government not only supported a lot of NGOs but also allowed funding from the U.S. that went to species conservation, environmental education and the training of professionals, according to the Tierra Viva Foundation, which carries out biodiversity and sustainability projects in the country. As relations between the two countries has deteriorated, it’s become much harder for NGOs to coordinate with funders based in the U.S.

“It has to do with the tense relationship between the government of both countries more than anything else,” said Alejandro Luy González, general director of the Tierra Viva Foundation. “That’s what led [U.S. funders] to move away.”

USAID, one of the world’s leading development agencies, with programs in more than 100 countries, still has conservation projects in Venezuela but doesn’t share their locations or goals, saying it has to exercise extreme discretion in “non-permissive environments.” Conservationists face serious risks working in the country, a spokesperson told Mongabay.

The Foundation for the Development of Physical, Mathematical and Natural Sciences (FUDECI), a local NGO that prepares crocodiles, turtles and other reptiles for release into the wild, said it had local, state and national funding for the first 20 years of its operations. But today, it doesn’t even have the budget to maintain its staff and research facilities. One biological station in the state of Amazonas was closed due to constant break-ins.

The organization now relies on support abroad, but has to compete with groups in other countries, which often look more appealing to donors because they’re safer, easier to visit and don’t run the risk of government intervention.

“It’s getting much, much more difficult,” said Omar Hernández, managing director of FUDECI. “We now have to compete globally with other countries that, you might say, have a better image. The financiers can visit [other countries] and see the projects, what is being done. Obviously, that has been restricting us a lot.”

For the Sea Turtle Conservation Program, which works on the Paria Peninsula in the Caribbean, the change has been gradual. In 2003, when it was founded, the program relied on the Ministry of Environment to cover all of its costs, including salaries, equipment and trips to isolated nesting areas. But by around 2012, the budget started to shrink. There wasn’t enough money to repair all of its boats.

Inflation rose to more than 60% the following year, and the government cut the program’s budget for travel and employee wages. By 2016, the program was operating with no funding at all. In more than a decade of work, it had managed to reduce turtle nest looting from 80% to 1%, thanks to patrols and community education. But those gains started to slip as the program lost money.

“The looters were having a field day,” founder Clemente Balladares recalled. “They knew we weren’t going to the beach or making the trips that we usually did.”

By 2017, the program team had stopped visiting the most isolated nesting sites, and there were only two team members doing patrols. The program had a moment of respite when the NGO Global Conservation started funding its operations. Balladares said the next several years were some of the program’s most successful, with a consistent payroll and the budget to hire staff, buy uniforms and invest in equipment.

Last year, Global Conservation ended its support for the Sea Turtle Conservation Program, in hopes that the social and political difficulties in Venezuela would improve in the future, Balladares said. Global Conservation didn’t respond to Mongabay’s request for comment.

Global Conservation isn’t alone in that decision. Many influential NGOs have chosen to pull out, or to relocate their work to satellite offices in neighboring Colombia or even Washington, D.C. Some of the most deforested and polluted parts of Venezuela, such as Amazonas and Bolívar states, appear to have no conservation groups present at all, according to Ortiz.

A bill that’s been under consideration for years would require all NGOs and universities to enter a public registry in order to collaborate with foreign organizations. The registry would allow the government to decide which groups it formally recognizes and require them to share the details of their work, putting dissidents and civil society in even more danger, critics say .

Election polls show that Maduro is deeply unpopular in the country, but outside observers have expressed concern that he could fix the election and govern for another six years. If that happens, the situation in Venezuela could deteriorate even further, conservation groups say, leaving the country’s many vulnerable ecosystems exposed to bad actors.

“If [Maduro wins], the situation will be much more serious, not only because of the wave of migration, but because even the few organizations that are working will obviously end up leaving,” Ortiz said. “Even I, as a defender, would have to leave the country.”

Banner image: President Nicolás Maduro. Photo by Eneas De Troya via Flickr . CC BY 2.0

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Energy Conservation Essay for Students and Children

500 words energy conservation essay.

Energy conservation refers to the efforts made to reduce the consumption of energy. The energy on Earth is not in unlimited supply. Furthermore, energy can take plenty of time to regenerate. This certainly makes it essential to conserve energy. Most noteworthy, energy conservation is achievable either by using energy more efficiently or by reducing the amount of service usage.

Importance of Energy Conservation

First of all, energy conservation plays an important role in saving non-renewable energy resources. Furthermore, non-renewable energy sources take many centuries to regenerate. Moreover, humans consume energy at a faster rate than it can be produced. Therefore, energy conservation would lead to the preservation of these precious non-renewable sources of energy.

Energy conservation will reduce the expenses related to fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are very expensive to mine. Therefore, consumers are required to pay higher prices for goods and services. Energy conservation would certainly reduce the amount of fossil fuel being mined. This, in turn, would reduce the costs of consumers.

Consequently, energy conservation would strengthen the economy as consumers will have more disposable income to spend on goods and services.

Energy conservation is good for scientific research. This is because; energy conservation gives researchers plenty of time to conduct researches.

Therefore, these researchers will have more time to come up with various energy solutions and alternatives. Humans must ensure to have fossil fuels as long as possible. This would give me enough time to finding practical solutions.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Another important reason for energy conservation is environmental protection. This is because various energy sources are significantly harmful to the environment. Furthermore, the burning of fossil fuels considerably pollutes the atmosphere. Moreover, nuclear energy creates dangerous nuclear waste. Hence, energy conservation will lead to environmental protection.

Energy conservation would also result in the good health of humans. Furthermore, the pollution released due to energy sources is harmful to the human body. The air pollution due to fossil fuels can cause various respiratory problems. Energy sources can pollute water which could cause several harmful diseases in humans. Nuclear waste can cause cancer and other deadly problems in the human body.

Measures to Conserve Energy

Energy taxation is a good measure from the government to conserve energy. Furthermore, several countries apply energy or a carbon tax on energy users. This tax would certainly put pressure on energy users to reduce their energy consumption. Moreover, carbon tax forces energy users to shift to other energy sources that are less harmful.

Building design plays a big role in energy conservation. An excellent way to conserve energy is by performing an energy audit in buildings. Energy audit refers to inspection and analysis of energy use in a building. Most noteworthy, the aim of the energy audit is to appropriately reduce energy input.

Another important way of energy conservation is by using energy-efficient products. Energy-efficient products are those that use lesser energy than their normal counterparts. One prominent example can be using an energy-efficient bulb rather than an incandescent light bulb.

In conclusion, energy conservation must be among the utmost priorities of humanity. Mahatma Gandhi was absolutely right when he said, “the earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs but not every man’s greed”. This statement pretty much sums up the importance of energy conservation. Immediate implementation of energy conservation measures is certainly of paramount importance.

FAQs on Energy Conservation

Q1 state one way in which energy conservation is important.

A1 One way in which energy conservation is important is that it leads to the preservation of fossil fuels.

Q2 Why energy taxation is a good measure to conserve energy?

A2 Energy taxation is certainly a good measure to conserve energy. This is because energy taxation puts financial pressure on energy users to reduce their energy consumption.

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