We study where, why, and how biodiversity change is happening, and how it impacts ecosystems and people. With the support of the Liber Ero Chair, we are translating this research into knowledge for conservation and policy.
Together, we build our understanding of biodiversity change by combining theory and experiments, with data synthesis and analysis. We also build new tools to support the rapid application of science to conservation. We welcome innovative and interdisciplinary thinkers and communicators.
My academic and professional background has provided me with a profound understanding of the importance of inclusive and community-focused approaches to addressing the challenges posed by dynamic ecosystems and global change. My current research focuses on the development and application of monitoring and modeling tools for ecosystem services.
At NACCB, I presented our analytical approach to assess and project habitat connectivity changes under different climate and land use scenarios. Our work, involving past and present Gonzalez lab members, highlights a decline in connectivity despite stable habitat area. This underscores the urgent need for strategies to conserve and restore connectivity, aligning with the KM-GBF’s targets.
Andy’s work with the Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group (AHTEG) for the UN CBD concluded in Cambridge with a report on monitoring indicators and gaps. PhD candidate Flavio Affinito contributed significantly to the report. The guidance was well-received at the 26th SBSTTA meeting in Nairobi, supporting the Global Biodiversity Framework’s finalization at COP16.
Montreal has many hidden green gems. No, not jade or emerald. Montreal’s gems are its many greenspaces of different shapes and sizes that create a beautiful and dynamic patchwork that supports biodiversity and human wellbeing. Many of these spaces go beyond conventional parks. Discover how they are pushing the frontiers of urban ecology and redefining good urbanism.
Being part of the Gonzalez Lab comes with many perks, one of my personal favourites is the connection to civil society and policy. Most of our work has direct policy implications and applications, and, through Prof Andy Gonzalez’s co-chair positions at GEO BON and the QCBS, we have a direct link with larger organisations that can amplify our work. A recent example is the collaboration between the Gonzalez Lab and the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UN CBD)