Overcoming gaps and barriers to effectively integrate social science in European conservation

Abstract

The importance of social science to address the human dimensions of natural resource management is increasingly recognized in the conservation field, yet the application of associated concepts, theories, methods, and data remains underrepresented in parts of Europe. Common barriers and gaps, persistent over decades, including institutional constraints, work environment, different cultures and languages between natural and social science disciplines, lack of qualified personnel, and an accessible professional community, are often cited as underlying and driving factors. To better understand, contextualize, and inform solutions for wider use of social science, we analyzed interactions with conservation researchers and practitioners across a series of organized events from 2018 to 2023 (e.g., in-depth interviews, facilitated discussions, expert workshops, international conferences, knowledge exchange forums). Frequently mentioned challenges to integrating social science were limited opportunities to engage across disciplines in the workplace, to interact with like-minded colleagues, and for 2-way communication and knowledge exchange between scientists and practitioners, especially given the diversity of subject matter expertise and disciplinary training of conservation professionals. The needs identified included capacity building to strengthen individual and institutional competencies, such as creating and maintaining multidisciplinary teams and professional networks, working across different organizations at multiple scales, and advancing institutional support for acceptance and validation of social science as a routine element of conservation practice, including representation of social scientists in the workforce. Steps to address such challenges can be taken along 2 pathways that conservation researchers and practitioners consistently mentioned: first, increasing conservation social science literacy through awareness building, targeted professional development training, and institutional support, and, second, fostering knowledge exchange, enhancing professional networks, and bolstering a robust community of practice across Europe.