Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT
How can local populations be won over to protected areas?
SWISS ACADEMIES FACTSHEETS, VOL. 15. NO. 5, 2020
What can the scientific literature tell us about the social acceptance of large-scale protected areas? Which recommendations for practice does it offer, and how can research help to advance our understanding of the social acceptance of protected areas in the future? These questions were investigated in a synthesis study.
A key factor for the acceptance of large protected areas like national parks or nature parks is communication that is tailored to the various target groups and happens through locally anchored people. Clear and transparent information about goals, plans, and opportunities for participation is equally crucial. The aim must be to develop a common vision with which local people can identify. This vision should be incorporated into the objectives of a protected area and implemented through concrete projects.
Michel AH, Wallner A (2020) How can local populations be won over to protected areas ? Swiss Academies Factsheet 15 (5).
Swiss Young Academy SYA
Compassionate Science - Integrating Empathy and Compassion in Research
This report explores how empathy and compassion shape research practices across disciplines. Drawing on a review of existing literature and illustrative examples from early-career researchers, it shows that empathy and compassion are not abstract ideals but practical dimensions of research that can influence study design, relationships, data interpretation, and knowledge translation. Across fields, integrating these dimensions can strengthen trust, deepen understanding, improve collaboration, and enhance ethical reflexivity.
Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences a+
STEM 2026: Where Switzerland stands today
Twelve years on from the first STEM Youth Barometer, the new 2026 edition reveals that interest in STEM has remained largely stable, stereotypes persist, and women underestimate their own abilities. At the same time, the findings are more nuanced than expected and point to clear areas for improvement.
Swiss Academy of Sciences SCNAT
Beyond the transaction: commodity trade and sustainable development
This factsheet maps the sustainability links of commodity trade, identifies knowledge gaps, and outlines options for commodity hubs, including Switzerland, to reduce economic, environmental and social sustainability risks.