In December, OneNature had the privilege of participating in the 2024 A Community on Ecosystem Services (ACES) conference, a dynamic gathering of researchers, practitioners, and policymakers dedicated to understanding and enhancing the benefits ecosystems provide to humanity.
This year’s conference stood out for its emphasis on integrating the values of nature into policy, practice, and community action. From inspiring presentations to meaningful discussions, ACES 2024 reinforced the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in conservation planning.
Key Highlights from ACES 2024
- Presenting Cultural Ecosystem Services
OneNature joined an esteemed panel to present chapters from the forthcoming Routledge Handbook on Cultural Ecosystem Services. Our chapter highlights the transformative role of cultural and spiritual ties to nature and wildlife in fostering community-driven conservation. It was heartening to see the audience’s enthusiasm for recognising these often-overlooked connections as essential for long-term conservation success. - Celebrating Diverse Perspectives
ACES 2024 celebrated the integration of diverse knowledge systems, blending Western scientific approaches with traditional ecological knowledge. By co-designing meaningful indicators and monitoring tools, conservation solutions become not only effective but also equitable. - Federal Commitment to Ecosystem Services
The participation of senior officials from agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency and US Forest Service underscored the importance of ecosystem services in federal decision-making. Initiatives such as the National Nature Assessment and “America the Beautiful” demonstrated the government’s dedication to valuing both material and cultural aspects of nature. - A Shared Vision for the Future
The sessions on tools like the Nature-Based Solutions Roadmap and Conservation and Stewardship Atlas showcased the future of conservation—bridging the gap between data and decisions, policy and practice, and people and nature.
Looking Ahead
The knowledge shared and connections made at ACES 2024 inspire and inform OneNature’s ongoing mission to integrate well-being and conservation. We’re excited to apply these insights to our projects and partnerships, ensuring that communities and ecosystems flourish together.
Thank you for supporting our work and being part of this journey. Together, we’re shaping a future where conservation is centred on the well-being of all beings—humans and wildlife alike.