Abstract: Biodiversity conservation in the face of climate change requires managing current areas of high value, and areas of future value such as those needed for species to track suitable habitat. For maximum benefit, carbon storage and sequestration should be included without jeopardising biodiversity priorities. Priority areas for both biodiversity and carbon can then be protected or restored. I demonstrate how this can be achieved for the Wet Tropics NRM Region, incorporating uncertainty and examining potential trade-offs across biodiversity conservation and carbon. I show how multiple time horizons and objectives need to be included for long-term persistence of species.
When: Tues 11th November, 12:00
Where: Townsville ATSIP Seminar Room, Bld 145, Room 30. Video linked to JCU Cairns E2.111.
JCU & CSIRO Science with Sushi Seminar Series – Sushi and refreshments provided afterwards!
Biography: April’s research focuses on climate change impacts and biodiversity conservation using spatial modelling. April’s current project uses a conservation planning framework to identify spatial priorities for climate change adaptation; focussing on biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration and habitat restoration. This research feeds into Natural Resource Management and government planning for climate change adaptation. April’s previous postdoc identified potential refugia for species persistence under future climate change, using both biodiversity and biophysical modelling to assess refugia potential across Australia for 1700 vertebrate species. April’s PhD was on the impacts of climate change on Australian tropical savanna birds, and has worked for an NGOs, as a research assistant, tutor, lecturer and now research fellow. She is also involved with threatened species recovery and local environmental issues.
