Insect and arthropod conservation policies: the need for a paradigm shift

Abstract

To date, insect conservation policy mainly consists of species protection lists, with some requiring habitat or ecosystem preservation to protect insect ecology. While a landscape or habitat approach seems the most appropriate for insect conservation, cases are rare of protected areas designated specifically for insects or other arthropods. Moreover, neither of these conservation approaches (species or habitat protection) have halted the worldwide decline in insects: species protection lists and reserves at best serve as band-aids for a massive hemorrhage. The main drivers of insect decline (global changes) are only loosely addressed by national and international policies. So, if we know the causes, what stands in the way of prevention and treatment for the problem? To save insects, our civilization needs psychotherapy rather than first-aid gestures: a paradigm shift that would place value on insects, and give rise to ecocentric policies informed by a wide range of stakeholders.