Integral ecology and sustainability: How a broader view of ecology can solve complex environmental issues

Background/Question/Methods

Successfully addressing complex environmental problems requires the dynamic incorporation of multiple disciplines including biology, ecol­ogy, political-economy, sociology, and psychology to create an integrated management ap­proach. The management process frequently involves a high level of interpersonal interactions through public participation and engagement of diverse perspectives, conflict resolution, and the development of criteria for decision-making. The talk will address how I have learned to analyze and engage in multiple-­use conflicts regarding fishery biology, management and policy in several fisheries in Hawaii (ornamental reef fish) and the US West Coast (bottom trawling).

Results/Conclusions

Using an integral ecology approach I developed a functional analysis of individuals and institutions, their integration, and how they can develop a mutual understanding about resources that promote sustainability. During this process inights were gained on the broader challenges of promoting sustainability (including a unique definition) and how they apply to major environmental issues facing society.