If you’ve read any of my previous posts, you’ll know that roads and traffic take a toll on the environment. You’ll also know that there is a whole field of research devoted to understanding and fixing the problem. Road ecology.
All over the world, road agencies, environment groups and scientists work to reduce the impacts of roads on the environment. They might build wildlife overpasses, reschedule construction so it doesn’t disrupt mating season, close roads during sensitive times or avoid building roads through protected areas. The details of these stories – successes, failures, and surprises – are often filed away on office shelves and forgotten. That’s the beauty of road ecology organisations like ICOET in the US and IENE in Europe. These networks hold regular meetings and conferences, ensuring that valuable lessons are shared.
Now one more group has set out to make information on road ecology more available – the Australasian Network for Ecology and Transportation, or ANET. To lift text straight from their website:
“We are a professional network dedicated to the research, design and implementation of environmentally-sensitive linear infrastructure (rail, roads and utility easements) across Australasia. ANET acts as a hub, providing links between government, industry, scientists and community groups to ensure all have access to current evidence and best-practice.”
While the network’s focus is on Australia, New Zealand and Asia, it’s open to anyone to join (it’s free) and contribute. In July 2014 the first ANET Conference will be held in Australia, showcasing the latest road ecology research.
life on the verge 
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