Causal inference is needed to understand whether conservation is working. There is a substantial role for behavioural science, as interventions often depend on behaviour change. A focus on design over data, embracing mixed methods and support from funders will help to provide the evidence needed to reverse biodiversity loss.
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Acknowledgements
We thank D. Verissimo, E. J. Milner-Gulland, Conservation Evidence, R. Evans, G. Nicholson, H. Wauchope, E. Pynegar and C. Krekel for valuable discussion, and The Oxford Martin School and Jesus College Oxford for support.
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Jones, J.P.G., Shreedhar, G. The causal revolution in biodiversity conservation. Nat Hum Behav (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-024-01897-6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-024-01897-6