In the rapidly growing debate about biodiversity, we risk letting loud opinions drown out actual knowledge and expertise. When it comes to complex topics like our ecosystems, it is crucial that we base our decisions on genuine insight – and not just on the knowledge we believe we possess. With the Dunning-Kruger effect in mind, we unfortunately see how well-meaning, but often misinformed, voices dominate the discussion about nature’s salvation.

It is fantastic to see the great engagement among citizens who take the initiative for insect hotels and wild flowers in their gardens. These commendable initiatives, along with the establishment of wild beds in urban verges and traffic islands, are important steps forward. However, at a broader political level, an excessive focus on the most visible initiatives risks diverting attention from the underlying causes and more effective solutions. These solutions require comprehensive and professionally founded plans.

Need for in-depth understanding and expertise

The true challenges for our biodiversity involve complex systems and require holistic solutions that extend far beyond simple quick-fixes. As politicians, it is our responsibility to utilize the experts we surround ourselves with, instead of merely opining, supposing, and believing. We must stop feeding the Dunning-Kruger effect and instead build bridges between political will and professional expertise.

If we ignore experts, we risk wasting resources on initiatives with limited effect, or which, in the worst case, do more harm than good. Unfortunately, we see examples of projects where the desire to create new nature unintentionally puts pressure on existing, valuable natural areas that have developed over decades and serve as habitats for rare species. We must by all means avoid destroying nature that we have already re-established and which functions vitally for biodiversity.

Concrete steps for Herning Municipality

We must invest significantly in knowledge and bold strategies that are based on a deep professional understanding of nature’s needs. For a municipality like Herning, which is the third largest in the country by area, this means we must establish more experimental areas for nature restoration. These areas can serve as learning spaces where we test different methods and collect data on the effect of our efforts. This gives us concrete knowledge to scale up and implement the most effective solutions locally. At the same time, we must actively participate in national nature restoration projects. By participating in broader, national initiatives, we can draw on the latest knowledge and best practices from across the country. This ensures that our local efforts are based on the best possible practice and contribute to a larger, coherent nature effort.

Only by basing our actions on facts and listening to professional expertise can we ensure a real and long-term future for our biodiversity. Let us work together for a green and sustainable future based on knowledge, strong communities, and a pragmatic approach to politics.