The Anthropocene marks a new chapter in Earth’s history where human activities dominate the planet’s geology and ecosystems. Eleanor Finch discusses how conservation strategies must adapt to this reality, moving from preserving untouched wilderness to managing landscapes where human influence is undeniable. This article explores various approaches to conservation in this new era, including rewilding, where ecosystems are allowed or helped to return to a more natural state; assisted migration, relocating species to new habitats due to climate change; and urban biodiversity projects that integrate nature into city living. It delves into the ethical questions these methods raise, such as the potential for unintended ecological consequences or the debate over when to intervene in nature. The narrative also covers the integration of traditional ecological knowledge with modern science, the economic arguments for conservation, and how global agreements like the Paris Accord affect conservation efforts. It concludes with a vision for a future where humans see themselves as part of nature, not separate from it, fostering a symbiotic relationship with the environment.
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