Enhancing ecological connectivity through biodiversity offsets to mitigate impacts on habitats of large mammals in tropical forest environments

Habitat loss and fragmentation are ecological impacts of development projects known to have severe effects on mammals' populations. Here, we study the role of connectivity assessment in Environmental Impact Assessment, focusing on its contribution to determining appropriate mitigation, in particular, biodiversity offsetting. For that purpose, we analysed the dispersal of large mammals in a region potentially influenced by a mine located in the Atlantic rainforest in Brazil and anticipate the long-term outcomes of restoration offsets by modelling a 30-year post-offset scenario. Results show that: (i) offsets enhance ecological connectivity and are used as an alternative habitat for the animals dispersed due to habitat loss and fragmentation; (ii) the location of restoration areas should be carefully planned to maximize their contribution to increase ecological connectivity and enhance habitat quality. The reviewed case suggests that best practices to incorporate connectivity analysis in environmental impact assessment include: (i) monitoring biodiversity to quantify losses and gains; (ii) modelling offset areas alternatives for both protection and restoration; and (iii) conducting rigorous analysis of project alternatives, aiming at impact avoidance.

Automated summary

This study analyzed the impact of a mining project on the dispersal of large mammals in the Atlantic rainforest region of Brazil and predicted the long-term outcomes of restoration offsets. The results showed that offsets can enhance ecological connectivity and provide alternative habitats for animals affected by habitat loss and fragmentation. Careful planning of restoration areas is necessary to maximize their contribution to increasing ecological connectivity and enhancing habitat quality.