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Prospects for Canada's protected areas in an era of rapid climate change
Authors:Christopher J Lemieux  Thomas J Beechey  Paul A Gray
Institution:1. Department of Geography and Environmental Management, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada;2. Canadian Council on Ecological Areas (CCEA), 91 Cooper Street, Cambridge, Ontario, N3C 2N5, Canada;3. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR), Applied Research and Development Branch, 300 Water St., Peterborough, Ontario, K9J 8M5, Canada
Abstract:Given the known and potential impacts of climate change on ecosystem composition, structure, and function, some recent studies question the efficacy and relevancy of current protected area policies and management objectives. For example, in a rapidly changing climate is it practical to continue to identify and protect ‘representative’ samples of the natural heritage estate? This paper examines a number of climate-related issues that now confront agencies and organizations responsible for the protection of natural heritage areas, including the roles of protected areas, representation targets, ecological integrity, protected area design, management techniques, research and monitoring needs, and agency capacity to respond. Potential avenues for adaptation are proposed in light of these issues. The development and implementation of a cross-jurisdictional landscape-scale strategic conservation framework focused on protecting, connecting, and restoring ecosystems will be fundamental to enhancing ecological resilience to climate change. We conclude that even though climate change presents unprecedented and significant challenges, the protected area contribution to ecosystem function and human health and well-being will remain an essential and worthwhile investment in the 21st century.
Keywords:Protected areas  Parks  Climate change  Conservation  Policy  Governance  Adaptation  Biodiversity
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