Open AccessAvoiding wasted research resources in conservation science
Author(s) -
Buxton Rachel T.,
Nyboer Elizabeth A.,
Pigeon Karine E.,
Raby Graham D.,
Rytwinski Trina,
Gallagher Austin J.,
Schuster Richard,
Lin HsienYung,
Fahrig Lenore,
Bennett Joseph R.,
Cooke Steven J.,
Roche Dominique G.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
conservation science and practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2578-4854
DOI - 10.1111/csp2.329
Subject(s) - conservation science , reuse , quality (philosophy) , biodiversity conservation , business , open science , action (physics) , management science , environmental planning , political science , environmental resource management , public relations , biodiversity , economics , engineering , geography , ecology , philosophy , epistemology , quantum mechanics , physics , astronomy , biology , waste management
Scientific evidence is fundamental for guiding effective conservation action to curb biodiversity loss. Yet, research resources in conservation are often wasted due to biased allocation of research effort, irrelevant or low‐priority questions, flawed studies, inaccessible research outputs, and biased or poor‐quality reporting. We outline a striking example of wasted research resources, highlight a powerful case of data rescue/reuse, and discuss an exemplary model of evidence‐informed conservation. We suggest that funding agencies, research institutions, NGOs, publishers, and researchers are part of the problem and solutions, and outline recommendations to curb the waste of research resources, including knowledge co‐creation and open science practices.