Creative problem solving in support of biodiversity conservation

Abstract Biodiversity in developing countries is inextricably linked with development. Consequently, policies to conserve biodiversity must take into account national development objectives and vice versa. Policy makers in developing countries are forced to identify creative ways of conserving biodiversity while supporting development and eradicating poverty. Even more than elsewhere, arid countries must focus on biodiversity valuation for both direct (e.g. biotrade, biotechnology and tourism) and indirect (e.g. ecosystem function, aesthetics and cultural values) uses. While inappropriate policies can undermine the conservation of biodiversity, good policies do not ensure that it takes place. Particularly in arid regions, policy markers and managers must have diverse skills to address a wide variety of challenges. Adaptive management is essential for biodiversity conservation in arid environments. It requires regular, informed problem-solving over a wide range of issues, and this, in turn, requires adequate and accessible databases concerning appropriate indicators of environmental change. Major headaches for planners are the intrinsic variability of arid environments, the long-term, changes that occur, and the often uncharismatic biota involved. Managers must be able to handle rapid and adaptive program planning and implementation, monitoring and evaluation, dissemination of information to authorities and the general public, and, often, training of junior and volunteer staff. Management education in support of the conservation of biodiversity in arid environments must focus on problem-solving skills and information management to ensure the depth and breadth of the training.