Communication and education on Biodiversity: an urgent challenge

Abstract

The accelerated loss of biological and cultural diversity requires transformational changes oriented towards sustainability. To achieve these changes, the fundamental role of education and communication is recognized. The main objective of this contribution was to identify and characterize the social actors involved in biodiversity communication and education in the context of the Natural Protected Areas of Mendoza (Argentina), analyzing the relationships they establish among themselves and the communication channels they use. The results showed the diversity of actors involved (e.g., park rangers, local and provincial state agencies, local people, researchers, etc.) and that they form different “action sets”, within which “node” actors were identified, capable of managing and articulating interactions to strengthen the links between actors. In this way, the effectiveness of biodiversity education and communication strategies could be optimized, aligning them with international sustainability objectives at the global level.