Internationally renowned academics from the University of Cumbria have taken a leading role in a new book that looks to shape future conversations about conservation and rebuilding nature.
Professor Ian Convery and research associate Sally Hawkins, from the university’s Institute of Science and Environment, are leading figures in the Commission for Ecosystem Management Rewilding Thematic Group (RTG) that is part of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Ian and Sally are two of the four editors of the new Routledge Handbook of Rewilding, partnering up in their three-year publishing project with fellow IUCN RTG founding members Steve Carver and Rene Beyers.
Aimed at conservation practitioners and students, particularly those with interests in ecological restoration, species reintroductions, and rewilding, the book includes case studies from around the world and explores key areas such as land acquisition and long-term planning, transitioning from human-led restoration to nature-led rewilding, along with political, social, and legal issues.
Practised in rewilding for many years, the four editors have drawn upon experiences and perspectives from 60 experts, who are prominent figures in their chosen fields, with the book produced by leading academic publisher Routledge.
Those from the University of Cumbria also contributing chapters include: Agriculture expert and Professor of Practice Dr Julia Aglionby, in conjunction with PhD research student Hannah Field and enthnobiologist and bushcraft and wilderness survival expert Dr Lisa Fenton, with Zoe Playdon.
Sally said: “Rewilding is a multi-discipline subject which offers a major transformational shift in conservation thinking and, at this time of complex global issues, is increasingly of interest to academics, policymakers, and practitioners, yet commonly the term is defined and used in a variety of different ways.
“Offering a comprehensive overview of the history, theory and current practices of rewilding, we are delighted that we’ve been able to create this book which draws upon ongoing research, current best practice for rewilding, and policy development within the IUCN.”
Copies of the book in hardback and e-version are available online with plans for it to be published in paperback in 2023.
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