Methodology Work packages WP 1: Understanding combinations of anthropogenic and natural processes across scales WP 2: Scaling biotic processes WP 3: Up- and down-scaling methods: cross-scale method development WP 4: Multi-level governance and policy instruments WP 5: Testing the practical suitability and matching of methods and policy instruments WP 6: Synthesis: Integration and development of SCALETOOL WP 7: Dissemination and Science-policy dialogue WP 8: Coordination Expected results Partners Project timetable Project organisation

WP 1 Understanding combinations of anthropogenic and natural processes across scales

(Simon Potts, Co-ordinator)

Objectives

The overall aim is to improve the understanding how combinations of natural and anthropogenic processes interact across scales. More specifically, the objectives are to:

• Describe, analyse, and develop a typology of anthropogenic processes operating at different spatial scales;
• Analyse the interactive effects of anthropogenic and natural processes across scales during the past 50-100 years and project future developments under different scenarios;
• Assess habitat loss and fragmentation across policy and species relevant scales.

Description of work

Policy and socio-economic drivers and natural processes operating at different administrative and spatial scales determine the directionality and intensity of anthropogenic processes and their effects on biodiversity. In this WP, we study their interactive effects across scales with an integrated analysis consisting of three steps. First, we describe and analyse anthropogenic processes at different spatial scales to derive a typology of pressures. We then analyse the interactive effects of anthropogenic and natural processes across scales during the past 50-100 years and project future developments under different scenarios, and finally we assess habitat loss and fragmentation across policy and species relevant scales to identify habitats at greatest risk and habitats of critical importance for regional connectivity.