Cultural ecosystem services of protected areas: considering community preferences and their socio-economic conditions

Abstract

Socioeconomic considerations have a considerable impact on both the adoption of cultural ecosystem services (CESs) and community preferences. Protected areas (PAs), which usually have a rich cultural legacy and provide possibilities for a variety of cultural activities, are crucial for maintaining these CESs. Some characteristics, such as economic position, educational attainment, and employment prospects, influence how local communities engage with PAs. Communities with little economic resources rely heavily on CESs for survival, whereas those with higher means may place a greater emphasis on recreational activities. Understanding community preferences is critical for better and more successful administration and maintenance of PAs. The linkages between community preferences, socioeconomic considerations, and the distribution of CESs in PAs emphasize the critical role of local communities in the creation of management strategies and decision-making processes. Further understanding of CESs and their relationship to community decisions and socioeconomic situations for improved sustainability would require more scientific research and collaboration between stakeholders. © 2025 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.