Media release

From: The National Environmental Science Program's Resilient Landscapes Hub

A new study has revealed that successful environmental restoration is dependent on bridging the gap between ecological science and understanding the social and economic forces that drive change.

Drawing on a systematic review of research from Australia, New Zealand and the United States, the study published today in Biological Conservation examines why some natural resource management initiatives deliver measurable environmental gains while others fall short.

Across the globe, countless initiatives aim to restore natural habitats, promote sustainable agriculture, and repair the damage caused by human activity. The review revealed two distinct but largely disconnected research traditions: one focusing on biophysical outcomes—such as soil health and biodiversity—and another examining social and economic factors—such as community engagement, policy support, and funding.

Lead author on the National Environmental Science Program Resilient Landscapes Hub project, Dr Bassie Limenih from the University of Tasmania, explained that the two largely separate research traditions — biophysical science and socio-economic analysis — tend to measure success in different ways, leading to fragmented understanding and missed opportunities for policy alignment.

“We identified a likely pathway from socioeconomic drivers to positive environmental change requires both social and ecological successes,” Dr Limenih said.

The study analysed literature on natural resource management programs that combine scientific expertise, organisational coordination, and on-the-ground efforts from practitioners and volunteers.

“These two worlds often speak different languages,” Dr Limenih said. “Biophysical studies focus on the physical interventions required for ecological change, while socio-economic studies focus on human values, behavioural intentions and governance. Both are essential, but rarely integrated.”

By synthesising insights from both strands, the study identifies a clear pathway linking social drivers to ecological success. The findings suggest that lasting environmental improvement requires more than scientific knowledge—it depends on building strong community partnerships, sound governance, and sustainable economic support.

The review recommends greater integration between social and natural scientists to design and evaluate initiatives that deliver both social and ecological benefits.

The National Environmental Science Program Resilient Landscapes Hub is funded by the Australian government to provide research to inform management of Australia’s terrestrial and freshwater habitats to promote resilience and sustainability.