Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Decisions Are Often Made by Rules of Thumb
The cost and burden of assessing each decision are such that, for many situations, if
not most, people use rules of thumb that they have been taught, have observed, or
have developed. Updating and revising a rule when new techniques or new informa-
tion becomes available can be particularly difficult, especially if the rule has been
used for a long time and/or generally performs well. For example, if multiple genera-
tions of farmers have cleared adjacent noncrop vegetation, it might be more difficult
to convince them that adjacent natural areas could provide benefits such as pollina-
tion and pest predation. Risk-averse individuals will be reluctant to try new actions, or
accept new, untested conditions. Trial or demonstration projects can play important
roles in the early alleviation of uncertainty and establishment of expectations.
Identifying Stakeholders, Their Preferences, and Their Beliefs Is Necessary
The first step toward understanding other stakeholders is important for anticipating
and avoiding conflicts and targeting education, compromises, and potential bargain-
ing situations. Determining and addressing areas of incomplete and imperfect infor-
mation that underlie beliefs may affect restoration outcomes.
Communication and Transparency Can Prevent Undesirable Expectations
Under conditions of uncertainty, stakeholders will be wary of worst-case scenarios re-
garding possible restoration outcomes. Stakeholders might be unsure of the goals of
the project or the outcomes. A nonconfrontational set of goals that does not directly
counter local livelihoods can be necessary to avoid opposition.
Expectations Matter More than Science for Individual Decision Making
If individuals believe there will be a particular outcome, they will behave accordingly,
regardless of what the scientific evidence shows. When these behaviors are detrimen-
tal, outreach can be most important. It is essential to assess what sources of informa-
tion stakeholders consider most credible. For example, farmers may be more likely to
listen to agricultural extension personnel with whom they have a long-term relation-
ship than to scientists employed by restoration organizations that farmers view as hav-
ing conflicting goals.
Conclusion
Game theory provides a valuable tool for understanding and resolving potentially
noncooperative restoration project contexts. Doing so can save time, money, and eco-
logical and economic outcomes that are irreversible or costly to reverse. It can also
lead to increased benefits to society and better long-term stewardship and sustainabil-
ity. Short of explicitly employing game theory, iterative processes over time can bring
