Setting ecological restoration goals for technical feasibility and scientific validity

Abstract

Major ecological restoration will not be undertaken unless human society approves the goals and objectives of restoration. In addition, restoration will not persist unless human society has sufficient esteem for the restored ecosystem to protect its integrity. Linking ecological restoration to sustainable use of the planet seems a promising way to foster society’s interest in and acknowledgment of human dependence on natural systems. An increase in environmental and ecological literacy is essential to achieving this end, as is an awareness of the goals and conditions of sustainability. If the science and technology underlying ecological restoration are not understood by the general public, implementation will fail for lack of public support. Ecosystem services, those functions of natural systems perceived as beneficial to human society, are likely to be understood and accepted if their value in the life support system of human society is explained. Emphasis in ecological restoration must shift from reestablishing a naturalistic community of plants and animals in the damaged ecosystems to restoring ecological functions, particularly those perceived as ecosystem services. Most restoration projects thus far have emphasized structure rather than function, although both are doubtless important to sustainable use of the planet. Nevertheless, support for ecological restoration may be enhanced by emphasizing the restoration of ecological services. An essential third consideration beyond technically feasible and scientifically valid goals is whether the goals are socially feasible. This manuscript will explore aspects of social feasibility because neither technically feasible goals nor scientifically valid goals will be possible in the absence of societal acceptance.