PhD defence: Hao Xia

Hao Xia defends his thesis,

Environmental Conservation in China within a Social-ecological Context
Evaluating Conservation Policies and Prioritizing Spatial Strategies

Supervisor:
Associate Professor Alexander Prishchepov

Assessment Committee:
Professor Julia P.G. Jones, Bangor Unitversity, UK
Professor María Piquer-Rodríguez, FU Berlin, DE
Professor Ole Mertz (chair), IGN

Abstract (Shortened):
Global biodiversity and many of nature's contributions to people are deteriorating globally, with projections indicating continued deterioration unless concerted, effective efforts are made to reverse these trends. Protected areas (PAs) have long been regarded as cornerstones of conservation efforts, and in China, ecological function conservation areas are vital for the country's pursuit of ecological civilization. Globally and regionally, systematic conservation planning at different spatial scales is designed to identify conservation priorities and improve conservation coverage. Despite widespread attention to the outcomes of these conservation policies and actions, there is still an oversight in integrating conservation policies and spatial prioritization into the social-ecological system, thereby neglecting associated trade-offs and synergies between conservation benefits. This thesis aims to thoroughly assess the effectiveness of China's conservation policies within the social-ecological system and propose spatial prioritization strategies that consider complex trade-offs and synergies.
Together, this thesis forms a comprehensive narrative that spans from broad national perspectives to detailed regional case studies. It enhances our understanding of the overall impacts and effectiveness of conservation actions, offering specific, actionable strategies for setting conservation priorities within social-ecological systems. This work provides researchers and policymakers with a robust framework for evaluating and prioritizing conservation efforts, bridging the gap between theory and practical application in ecosystem management.

A digital version of the PhD thesis can be obtained from the PhD secretary at phd@ign.ku.dk