Search

This article focuses on myths related to restoration ecology. Given the widespread alteration of natural systems, it is clear that conservation measures alone will not suffice to protect ecosystem functions, services, and habitat for a large number of species in the future. Conservation has traditionally been a rearguard measure to prevent further degradation rather than a means for increasing resources or natural capital. Many government policies concerning development and extractive resource use already assume the ability to mitigate ecosystem damage through the restoration of degraded land or creation of new habitats.