The competing pressures for protecting natural environments

Abstract

Restoration policies usually focus on natural and semi-natural habitats, “native” habitats composed of native species of plants or insects, in natural reserves, in order to preserve natural heritage. But science shows that we also need to protect these habitats in working landscapes. In the last decade, the idea that natural habitats are necessary in this type of landscape has been reinforced. Studies have shown that natural habitats have a role in productive systems, making biodiversity protection a concern for agronomists and farmers too. Protecting native habitats in working landscapes is important for many reasons. They are listed in the 18 categories of nature’s contribution to people, among which are reducing water and soil contamination and erosion, increasing crop pollination, etc.