Road Ecology: Synthesis and Perspectives

Roads and transportation infrastructures are among the most extensive human-made transformations on Earth—shaping landscapes, enabling connectivity, and driving economic growth. Yet, behind these undeniable benefits lies a complex web of ecological consequences. Roads fragment habitats, alter ecosystems, and influence biodiversity in ways that ripple across the planet, raising urgent questions for sustainable development. This groundbreaking book is the first to comprehensively present both the current state of knowledge and future directions in the emerging discipline of Road Ecology. Organized into 5 sections, it offers a clear and accessible structure: Road-Related Impacts – How roads affect ecosystems and species Global Perspectives – Insights from Road Ecology research worldwide Organism-Level Effects – From plants to wildlife, understanding species-specific responses Emerging Topics – Innovative approaches and future challenges. Each chapter concludes with a forward-looking perspective, ensuring readers gain not only a deep understanding of today’s science but also a vision for tomorrow’s solutions. This essential resource addresses a long-standing gap: the difficulty of integrating all aspects of Road Ecology into a single, coherent reference. By promoting a multidisciplinary approach, it empowers scientists, students, and stakeholders—such as road authorities, wildlife managers, and conservation planners—to mitigate ecological costs while enhancing societal benefits. Whether you are a researcher, policymaker, or an environmentally conscious reader, this book offers the knowledge and tools to navigate one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time.