Change. Complexity. Uncertainty, Conflict, Ambiguity. Intractability. Wicked problems. Ethics, Integrity. All these terms capture much of what resource and environmental managers must address in determining the most appropriate course of action relative to social-ecological systems. Often, no obviously correct strategy or response is identifiable. Instead, options exist, each with strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately a decision must be taken, reflecting scientific and experiential understanding as well as values and priorities of societies and stakeholders. The intent in this book is to raise awareness about the need to recognize such attributes of resource and environmental management, and to provide concepts, approaches, and methods to help in developing solutions. At the outset, the importance of developing a vision is highlighted. In defining the scope of problems and opportunities, it is argued that a holistic or ecosystem approach should be interpreted as an integrated rather than a comprehensive approach, with the focus on a small set of variables and relationships having significant impact on the functioning of an ecosystem, and amenable to being managed. An adaptive management approach is also strongly encouraged, to learn from experience. Part of learning will arise through stakeholder engagement. Disputes may emerge, and need to be resolved. Finally, implementation of policies and plans can encounter many obstacles, emphasizing the need to become aware of and overcome them, and then monitor and assess outputs and outcomes, in order to adapt to changing circumstances.
Assessing the Complexity of Social-Ecological Systems: Taking Stock of the Cross-Scale Dependence
