ECOSYSTEMS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE integrate the study of both natural and social causes and consequences of change, or social and policy processes that deal with challenges arising from environmental change. Themes include, but are not restricted to, the drivers, consequences and management of changes in: biodiversity and ecosystem services, climate, land use and land cover, populated areas, food and water resources.
Ecosystems and Environmental Change explores the interactions between natural and social drivers, their impacts on ecosystems, including the social, economic, and policy processes that address emerging environmental challenges. Hence, this section provides a platform for studies linking scientific understanding of ecosystems with practical approaches to support sustainable development in a rapidly changing world and covers the causes, consequences, and management of changes across multiple domains. The focus is on research into ecosystem responses, resilience, and adaptation strategies, including work that integrates ecological, social, and policy perspectives or develops innovative solutions to address environmental change.