Separation or integration of biodiversity conservation: the ideology behind the "land-sharing" versus "land-sparing" debate

Abstract

Perfecto,  I.,  Vandermeer,  J.  (2012).  Separation  or  integration  of  biodiversity  conservation:  the  ideology  behind  the  "land-sharing" versus "land-sparing" debate. Ecosistemas 21(1-2):180-191

Most neotropical forests are fragmented. Forest fragments are frequently found in an agricultural matrix consisting of different types of agroecosystems. In this paper we discuss the fallacy of the argument "land-sparing" which promotes the intensification of agriculture as a means of protecting forests and thus biodiversity. We also discussed the ideological content of the discussion of land sparing versus land sharing. Afterwards we argue that it is in the agricultural matrix where biodiversity conservation efforts should be focused. Our argument uses empirical evidence and metapopulation theory to propose that the best strategy to avoid the loss of biodiversity in fragmented landscapes is to develop diverse agricultural systems that promote migration of organisms between forest fragments. The quality of the matrix with respect to metapopulation processes increases with agroecosistem diversification, adding trees and other elements that increase the structural diversity of agroecosystems and the elimination of toxic agrochemicals. Agroecological initiatives like the Campesino a Campesino movement and social movements of small farmers such as La Vía Campesina represent the best allies for the conservation of biodiversity in the Neotropics.