Object and presentation > Object and Presentation

Scientific and societal context

Faced with global changes, ecosystems are exposed to disturbances that affect them to greater or lesser extent, depending on their resilience ability. The study of ecological system vulnerability consists of a structural and functional analysis of the system, that enable the identification of risk of ecosystem loss and the consequent losses to human societies. Then, a socio-ecosystemic approach is needed.

The conference encompasses multiple themes:

• Identification and ranking of potential impacts, integrating multi-scales and multi-disturbance aspects

• Establishing the link between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning

• Understanding how to bridge the gap between population sensitivity and socio-ecosystemic sensitivity and resilience

• Advising with regard to the economic and societal adaptations necessary for sustainable development

Scientific Objectives

This conference proposes to take stock of existing knowledge relating biodiversity and functioning of freshwater, brackish water and marine ecosystems, and concerning the impact of global changes on the efficiency of these ecosystems. There is a need for a multi-disciplinary course of action linking natural and human sciences to clearly understand how this scientific approach can benefit planning and public decision-making.