Advancing knowledge, learning, innovation and technology

This depends in part on the ability of the conservation community to engage with those at the cutting edge of technology. What kind of knowledge or new kinds of learning communities do we need to bridge the gap?

A current challenge is our ability to harness existing innovations, including artificial intelligence, remote sensing, mobile technology and the internet, to improve conservation outcomes. While these technologies are mainstreamed in many activities, they remain absent from large sways of conservation. Why are there continued gaps in utilising these technologies? Is there sufficient capacity? How can we keep up with the rapid pace of technological change and use it to the advantage of conservation, resilience and sustainability?

Given the potential negative impacts on ecosystems from technology, do we need to develop appropriate risk and policy frameworks to guide technology and innovation, and minimise adverse outcomes? What solutions are needed to tackle these problems, while staying within risk levels that are acceptable to potential users? Are existing ethical and rights-focused safeguards sufficient and enforceable?

With the fast pace and dominance of new technologies, how can we ensure conservation continues to benefit from diverse forms of knowledge? What lessons can we learn from the past, and what are the ‘new frontiers’ to be explored? Can we use horizon scanning to more accurately identify emerging challenges and opportunities for mainstreaming conservation with innovative approaches?

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