Social–ecological systems approaches are essential for understanding and responding to the complex impacts of COVID-19 on people and the environment

Abstract

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is dramatically impacting planetary and human societal systems that are inseparably linked. Zoonotic diseases like COVID-19 expose how human well-being is inextricably interconnected with the environment and to other converging (human driven) social–ecological crises, such as the dramatic losses of biodiversity, land use change, and climate change. We argue that COVID-19 is itself a social–ecological crisis, but responses so far have not been inclusive of ecological resiliency, in part because the “Anthropause” metaphor has created an unrealistic sense of comfort that excuses inaction. Anthropause narratives belie the fact that resource extraction has continued during the pandemic and that business-as-usual continues to cause widespread ecosystem degradation that requires immediate policy attention. In some cases, COVID-19 policy measures further contributed to the problem such as reducing environmental taxes or regulatory enforcement. While some social–ecological systems (SES) are experiencing reduced impacts, others are experiencing what we term an “Anthrocrush,” with more visitors and intensified use. The varied causes and impacts of the pandemic can be better understood with a social–ecological lens. Social–ecological insights are necessary to plan and build the resilience needed to tackle the pandemic and future social–ecological crises. If we as a society are serious about building back better from the pandemic, we must embrace a set of research and policy responses informed by SES thinking.

Economic pressures of Covid‐19 lockdowns result in increased timber extraction within a critically endangered region: A case study from the Pacific Forest of Ecuador

“…A growing number of researchers are calling to change to a ‘One Health’ perspective of conservation as continued environmental degradation presents a clear threat not only to wildlife but to human health as well (Beirne, 2021; Halabowski & Rzymski, 2021; Kadykalo et al, 2022; Kideghesho et al, 2021; Koju et al, 2021; Manenti & Hymas, 2021; Rahman et al, 2021; Scanlon AO, 2021; Zahawi et al, 2020). In this paper, we call for greater documentation of habitat loss and modification, particularly in highly biodiverse areas.…”

The struggle of women’s civic organization in the Indigenous community: A case study of Bontoc Women’s Brigade

“…The unexpected environmental disturbance, exemplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly impacted people, particularly in terms of local social relationships (Kadykalo et al, 2022). The pandemic resulted in a decrease in the number of volunteers, with many feels unsafe about participating in activities (Ayalon et al, 2020).…”

Foresight science in conservation: Tools, barriers, and mainstreaming opportunities

“…Online communication can also decrease cost in terms of time commitment and financial resources, especially when interacting with stakeholders in remote communities (Cook et al 2014a). Nevertheless, online platforms may simultaneously make it harder to build relationships with stakeholders, as not everyone has equal access to the internet and communication devices (Kadykalo et al 2022).…”