Timothy Tear Abstract
The relationships among science, technology, policy, and society are complex and continuing to evolve. This paper investigates the potential roles for conservation organizations within societal mix to reduce the threat of atmospheric deposition to society and the environment. Based on perspectives drawn largely from experience with The Nature Conservancy, recommendations are presented on strengthening the links between science, technology, policy, and conservation to address this threat. Several possible explanations for poor past performance by The Nature Conservancy are discussed. A variety of indicators suggest that a period of limited action is over. The local to global links are clear and understandable, and apathetic or “head in the sand” tactics are no longer justifiable. A period of significant growth in the Conservancy has resulted in a concurrent investment in science. With additional scientific capacity, the Conservancy has begun to assess the impacts of atmospheric deposition to ecosystems in the northeastern United States , and has made a significant decision to work openly on public policy. The realization that after a century of significant financial investment by the general public and conservation communities, the lands and waters set aside for protection are still at significant risk has been influential in moving the Conservancy to action. This comes at a time when conservation faces a persistent, unrelenting struggle against numerous threats from human globalization. Conservation organizations must play an integral role alongside science, technology, and policy to insure that our society leaves behind a healthier planet for generations that follow. Conservation organizations need to promote greater awareness of the impacts from atmospheric deposition to ecosystem health in addition to human health. A common vision for the future in the northeast must include a world where reductions in atmospheric deposition are significant enough to promote ecosystem recovery. In the context of the grave challenges raised from globalization, in the years to come there is great responsibility to present such a success story from the Northeast to the rest of the world.
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