Evaluating recovery planning for threatened species in Australia

摘要: Loss of biodiversity is a major environmental issue in Australia. In response the Commonwealth Government has developed national list threatened species and prepared recovery plans under provisions Environmental Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBCA). However, knowledge on appropriateness effectiveness those conservation management schemes limited. The aim thesis was to conduct an evaluation planning assess its as instrument, investigate how legislative, institutional organisational factors influence implementation. Four research questions were addressed: 1) How does operate regard jurisdictional aspects? 2) Do comply with legislative requirements coherent planning? 3) What have most implementation at state level? 4) modifications could be made system improve plans? approaches considered this study policy systems analysis. Both incorporated framework construct conceptualisation model. This allowed examining structure, key elements dynamics, performance effectiveness. Methods comprised interviews, content analysis program documentation, qualitative quantitative plans, experts’ workshops, modelling. set data came from database which attributes 236 plans. Taking into account Australian for preparing selected assessing degree compliance. Internal consistency also assessed complementary measure planning. Measures internal were: between gaps scientific information versus prescribed actions calling research; threatening processes prescription threat abatement actions; objectives criteria measuring achievement objectives. Another component construction model species. theoretical conceptualised opinions experts stakeholders occupying roles management. social aspects such influencing built using Bayesian belief network influential components (issues, strategies, requirements) likely outcomes. Expert assisted identify formulate new strategies. Finally, modelling different scenarios identified that would Major findings investigation revealed that: Although three levels government Australia (Commonwealth, state/territory local) are involved planning, it states/territories active role operating State territory-based legislation, strategies shape form performed nationwide, they responsible implementing 89% plans; Overall compliance adequate; although improvement required establishing monitoring framework. Overall, adequate addressing threats formulating gaps; but poor regarding some establishment criteria; According experts/stakeholders, issues relevant are: coordination across Commonwealth, territory agencies, inconsistency programs jurisdictions, private land, incorporation science prioritising action, funding strategy may improved by mandatory review reports; creating forum species; designing appropriate insurance regime volunteers; system.