Contributions of canopy research to public education and understanding of ecosystem services

Background/Question/Methods

Forest canopies form a critical interface for exchange of material between the geosphere, biosphere and atmosphere. Forest canopies may host more than half of the global biota, which is instrumental in regulating energy, carbon and nutrient fluxes among these major pools. Conservation of forest canopies is critical to maintaining the integrity and sustainability of forest ecosystem processes and services. Canopy access facilities have proven to be valuable for ecotourism and public education on the services provided by forests and forest canopy communities. Visitors to the canopy can experience the diversity of canopy organisms and the effect of canopy modification of climatic variables. Promotion of forest canopies for educational, as well as research, pursuits will be critical to public support for preservation of forest ecosystems. 

Results/Conclusions

We present several case studies from Cameroon, Ethiopia, Western Samoa and Peru where canopy ecologists have utilized their research programs to foster unique partnerships with local stakeholders and education outreach programs to encourage forest conservation. Canopy ecology has proved an effective "hook" to generate economy, promote ecology education, and ultimately contribute to conservation initiatives in tropical rain forests.