Scientists’ responsibilities towards evidence‐based conservation in a S mall I sland D eveloping S tate

A successful evidence-based conservation strategy for the endangered coco de mer palm (Lodoicea maldivica) in Seychelles demonstrates how collaborative research and stakeholder engagement can bridge the 'implementation gap' between science and policy. The study highlights that integrating scientific findings with management practices, through a working group involving researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, led to significant conservation actions such as a stewardship scheme reducing poaching by 30-50% and legal harvesting by up to 75%. Key strategies included incentivizing local staff to protect nuts, restricting kernel trade via CITES Appendix III, and revising national legislation. The approach underscores the critical role of scientists in translating research into actionable recommendations, fostering mutual trust, and adapting traditional management practices to achieve long-term sustainability for a flagship species.

Kaiser‐Bunbury, C. N., Fleischer‐Dogley, F., Dogley, D., & Bunbury, N. (2014). Scientists’ responsibilities towards evidence‐based conservation in a Small Island Developing State. Journal of Applied Ecology, 52(1), 7–11. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.12346