It is common to hear about concepts such as biodiversity conservation. However, its meaning may not be so obvious. In this paper, some elements to discuss this term are provided. The interactions among living organisms and between them and their environment are emphasized. Subsequently, we propose to reflect on our perception of the species and to expand it within the framework of the complex network of interactions that make up living systems. Finally, a definition of biodiversity is presented. To conserve biodiversity as currently defined, it is necessary to develop a systemic conservation strategy known as ecosystem management, which emphasizes the relationships between the different elements of the ecosystem and further underscores that humans are an integral part of these. We point out the importance of reflecting upon how the human beings integrate the ecosystem. By doing this, we highlight that human integration in ecosystems is mediated by their cultural interpretation system. To stress this recognition we propose to use the concept of environmental systems and discuss current conservation policies from that perspective. Finally, it is proposed that conservation policies must be reoriented in order to be effective. This requires a reorientation of our thinking about conservation. In this sense, we propose to change the classic arguments supported by 'Why is conservation needed?' into other, less explored, such as 'What is conservation for?' In this way, this work highlights the need to broaden the thinking about the conceptual elements which guide current conservation policies.
