Adaptation to climate change, conservation of biodiversity and restoration of ecosystems are relatively new goals for humankind
A pioneering, innovative approach is essential. This, however, needs to be tempered by rigorous scientific research, learning from experience and then adjusting interventions accordingly. C4 specialises in undertaking such research and adaptive management. We advocate firstly an experimental approach for all interventions implemented within a project and secondly the ultimate publication of results emanating from the interventions in the peer-reviewed literature. Importantly, failed interventions should be documented as rigorously as successful interventions. This is because the results from both types of interventions should provide the evidence-base for future decisions on adapting to climate change, conserving biodiversity or restoring ecosystems.
Department of Soil Science, Stellenbosch University, 2003–Current.
Anthony Mills, the founder and CEO of C4 EcoSolutions, is also Extraordinary Professor in the Department of Soil Science, University of Stellenbosch, where he undertakes primary research on soil chemistry and ecology. Anthony regularly publishes in the peer-reviewed academic literature on a wide range of topics, including soil chemistry, ecology, ecosystem restoration, climate change adaptation and carbon sequestration.