A 13‐step framework for better integration of streamlined conservation research

Abstract

AbstractThe rise of integrated conservation research underscores its pivotal role in raising global environmental concerns, making it an attractive research subject from numerous perspectives. This general interest in integrated research is positive in that it provides an interdisciplinary approach with important innovations, encompassing a variety of fields, in opposition to considering conservation as an “afterthought” of ecological results. The current challenge is to organize research findings in a consistent, streamlined process that effectively supports and influences world biodiversity conservation. Disciplines once deemed unrelated to conservation science, such as social sciences, are now being incorporated into conservation research, and there is a pressing need to unify these diverse areas into a cohesive process to enhance the coverage of this growing field. It is also vital to acknowledge that each focal population unit (e.g., species, taxa, clade, etc.) may have specific requirements. Here, I propose a 13‐step framework that aims to integrate a comprehensive range of conservation research fields, from traditional ecology and behavior to inclusive mitigation plans, policy recommendations, and monitoring processes, ensuring that conservation research results are translated into tangible conservation actions. Integrating research‐based conservation results will facilitate the required coordinated effort from scientists, government agencies, the general public, and relevant sections of the private sector, thereby reinforcing the foundations to support conservation initiatives. This manuscript defines a procedure to address the conservation research requirements of specific focal population units (e.g., species, taxa, clade, population, etc.). It emphasizes the need for a consistent and streamlined process integrating all research fields, aiming to increase the breadth of knowledge essential for generating actionable conservation research results. The process supports clearly defined goal‐driven objectives that can be readily adopted by organizations interested in actionable conservation research results at varying levels. Nevertheless, conservation measures can be taken at any stage within the process, recognizing that achieving all research outcomes is a resource‐intensive optimum.