In an era of rapid ecological and societal change, Franklin University Switzerland presents "Nature Conservation for Everyone: New Actors for Biodiversity in Switzerland," a study conducted by the esteemed Professors Caroline Wiedmer and Christoph Kueffer. This research, commissioned by the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment, stands at the forefront of integrating nature conservation into the broader societal transformation towards sustainability.
About the Study
Overview: The study is a clarion call to make nature conservation a cornerstone of sustainable societal development. It comprises a series of modules that provide a roadmap for incorporating biodiversity across all societal and economic activities, minimizing negative impacts on nature, and fostering ecological revitalization.
Key Insights: Employing the "People and Nature" approach, the study advocates for a democratic rejuvenation in nature conservation, emphasizing the power of participatory processes and the wealth of perspectives from social sciences and humanities.
Collaboration: Franklin University Switzerland, in partnership with the Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, invites you to join this interdisciplinary journey, blending natural and social sciences with the humanities, to address the pressing challenge of declining biodiversity.
Methodology
Modules Description: The study unfolds across thirteen modules, divided into theoretical underpinnings, methodological advances, a comprehensive inventory of conservation allies, targeted case studies, and actionable conclusions.
Workshops and Case Studies: A diverse array of workshops and case studies involving varied participants fostered rich dialogues about their connections to nature, laying the groundwork for the study's insightful recommendations.
Key Findings
Democratic Approach to Conservation: The study encourages expanding democratic engagement in nature conservation, beyond conflict resolution to enable new solutions that broaden our social imagination regarding biodiversity.
Role of Humanities: Highlighting the untapped potential in narratives and visual arts, the study underscores the importance of employing storytelling, literature, and visualizations to communicate and engender a cultural shift towards conservation.
Digital Stories: Embracing modern storytelling techniques, the study includes digital narratives that encapsulate personal engagements with nature, serving as a powerful tool for sharing knowledge and inspiring conservation action.