Making conservation more inclusive is a realization of our land ethic

Abstract

Aldo Leopold's essay The Land Ethic is a cornerstone of North American conservation science. It is celebrated for its emphasis on the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the moral imperative to respect this interdependence. Yet, at its core, Leopold's essay is a call for change, asserting that societal values - on which our relationship with land is predicated - evolve over time. Here, we revisit Leopold's call in light of contemporary conservation challenges and the growing recognition of the importance of equity and social justice in environmental stewardship. We highlight the limitations of a static interpretation of Leopold's Land Ethic, noting its minimal acknowledgment of Indigenous stewardship and its historical context within hegemonic cultural values. We examine how modern environmental issues, such as globalization, urbanization, and climate change, demand an evolving ethical framework. Ultimately, we argue that Leopold's plea to expand our ethical community is consistent with ongoing efforts to incorporate diverse perspectives and rectify historical injustices in conservation. Further, we pose a series of questions with the goal of stimulating conversations on what reimagined land ethics centered on equity, justice, and inclusivity could offer. Together, these questions provide a framework for critical self-reflection and group discussion on how we can continue to answer Leopold's call in the face of modern conservation challenges.