Applied ecology

Abstract

Applied ecology is concerned with problems of resource allocation. In a positive (scientific) role, it is concerned with assessing the effect of planning, design and management decisions on ecological components and processes. In a normative (ethical) role, it questions how to match ecological capability with the objectives of society. This paper describes the practical context in which applied ecology operates. To reduce 'ecological costs' to society, governments can modify resource allocation through comprehensive (forward) planning and by development control. To provide a basis on which decisions can be made, 2 procedures have been developed-integrated resource analysis (IRA) and environmental impact analysis (EIA). In a review of IRA, the main problems identified concern potential vs. existing resource capability, how to identify the 'best' pattern of land use, and how to account for interactions between different activities. The main problems of EIA concern the choice of assessment methods to suit particular situations, and how assessed impact is evaluated.-from Authors Show more