A grounded theory of change for rewilding

Hawkins, Sally and Convery, Ian (2023) A grounded theory of change for rewilding. PhD thesis, Lancaster University.

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Abstract

Various theories and approaches to rewilding have been developed in response to contextual influences and drivers. Widespread recognition of the concept has necessitated attempts to consolidate rewilding theory and practice. However, there remain inconsistencies among conceptualisations of rewilding and tensions exist between clarifying rewilding and reflecting its multivalence and complexity. The research documented in this thesis was designed in this context and aims to deconstruct the concept of rewilding using an adapted constructivist grounded theory approach; to examine the influences on the emergence and evolution of rewilding concepts; to identify sources of conflict and areas of common ground; and to (re)construct the concept of rewilding using a theory of change framework. After an initial empirical chapter describing this evolution of rewilding based on the data, the remaining empirical chapters consider rewilding in relation to change: why change is needed, what change is intended, and how change is implemented. Several emergent theories related to change are proposed: a theory of dewilding and related causes and effects; a theory of rewilding’s social-ecological aims; a revised rewilding continuum encompassing ecological and socio-cultural change; rewilding principles to inform application and a list of interventions used in rewilding, suggesting how these can contribute to rewilding aims. Finally, two proposed theories of change for rewilding are proposed, one intended to guide international policy and the other to guide those driving rewilding application to create project specific theories of change. These theories are outlined and implications for rewilding are highlighted.