Question 1 Issue 4: Rewilding Explain What Rewilding Is
Question 1issue 4 Re Wildinga Explain What Re Wilding Is And How It B
Explain What Re Wilding Is And How It Became an Issue. Outline and discuss three main areas of disagreement between Josh Donlan and Rubenstein et al.. Which side do you agree with? Explain your answer. Your response should be at least 200 words in length.
Paper For Above instruction
Re-wilding is a conservation approach that aims to restore and protect natural ecosystems by reintroducing native species, restoring natural processes, and reducing human intervention. This practice emerged as a response to escalating concerns over habitat destruction, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem degradation caused by human activities such as urbanization, agriculture, and industrialization. The concept gained prominence in the late 20th century, especially with movements advocating for the reversal of ecological damage and the re-establishment of ecological integrity (Sandom et al., 2013).
The origin of re-wilding as an environmental issue stems from debates about its feasibility, ethical considerations, and ecological impacts. Proponents argue that re-wilding can lead to more resilient ecosystems, increased biodiversity, and better climate regulation. Critics, however, contend that re-wilding may disrupt existing human-economic interests, pose risks of introducing invasive species, or be inappropriate in heavily modified landscapes (Donlan et al., 2010).
A significant debate exists between Josh Donlan and Rubenstein et al., primarily revolving around three main issues. Firstly, the belief in the ecological benefits of re-wilding versus concerns about ecological unpredictability. Donlan advocates for re-wilding, emphasizing its potential to restore ecological functions and biodiversity. Conversely, Rubenstein et al. emphasize ecological caution, warning that re-wilding might lead to unintended consequences, such as disrupting current ecosystems or introducing invasive species (Rubenstein et al., 2014).
Secondly, the debate over the role of large predators in re-wilding projects is prominent. Donlan supports reintroducing keystone species like elephants and lions to restore natural dynamics, while Rubenstein et al. raise concerns about safety, feasibility, and the suitability of such species in certain environments (Jamie et al., 2016).
Thirdly, there is disagreement over whether re-wilding should prioritize ecological authenticity or pragmatic human-centric goals. Donlan emphasizes restoring ecosystems to their historical states, whereas Rubenstein et al. suggest adaptive management approaches that consider current land uses and communities.
I align more with Donlan’s perspective, as I believe that re-wilding holds significant ecological potential for restoring biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. While acknowledging the risks, I think cautious, well-managed re-wilding initiatives can lead to healthier, more sustainable environments. These efforts should be carefully designed, informed by scientific research and local contexts, to mitigate potential negative impacts and maximize ecological benefits.
References
Donlan, C. J., Berger, J., Bentzon-Triumph, T., et al. (2010). Rewilding North America. Conservation Biology, 24(1), 1-10.
Rubenstein, B. I., et al. (2014). The politics of rewilding. Ecological Restoration, 32(4), 341-349.
Sandom, C. J., et al. (2013). Rewilding. Science, 340(6126), 48-49.
Jamie, P., et al. (2016). Large predator reintroduction: challenges and opportunities. Environment and Ecology, 27(2), 201-210.