Abstract

  It is quite possible that no ecosystem on the planet is totally free of anthropogenic effects. Changes in the ozone layer, airborne transport of contaminants, and the persistence of pesticides and other chemicals, coupled with biological magnification, implies that even remote areas are probably not comparable to their condition before the industrial revolution and the recent explosion of human population. Theoretical ecologists have attempted to isolate their theories and studies from anthropogenic effects with varying degrees of success. However, finding ecosystems free of the effects of human society is becoming increasingly difficult, partly because of the global nature of pollution problems. Regrettably, many academicians are not educated in policy development as they work toward ES., M.S., or Ph.D. degrees in the sciences. As a consequence, scientists are surprised to learn that a politically-appointed individual, experienced in law or some other non-scientific field, usually has final decision-making authority over policy that affects ecosystems. Scientists must understand that policy links science to social, economic, and legal societal values and needs. Finally, aside from the fact that policy or lack thereof now affects all of the planet's ecosystems, policy most likely will also determine which areas of research are funded. While some scientific studies could be carried out with personal funds, these are not particularly common in mainstream science and, therefore, obtaining financial support for ecosystem studies for the remainder of this century and probably early in the next will depend increasingly on societal policy other than purely science policy.

Keywords: ecological restoration, sustainable use, ecosystem health, environmental policy, environmental management