An ecosystem approach to management: A context for wilderness protection

Sustainable development, ecosystem management and ecosystem health are three prominent catch phrases that now permeate the scientific and popular media, and form the basis of a growing number of private sector, government and academic programs. This discussion paper briefly explores the definition and application of these concepts as a context for wilderness protection programs by arguing that the idea of "sustainable living" is preferred over "sustainable development" as a vision for the future, an ecosystem approach to management is one method by which sustainable living might be achieved, and that an ecosystem approach to management must provide for a balanced spectrum of human activities that cumulatively contribute to ecosystem health.