Measuring social-ecological dynamics behind the generation of ecosystem services

Area of Science:

• Urban Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• Social-Ecological Systems

Background:

• Ecosystem services generation relies on integrated social and ecological factors.
• Urban green spaces exhibit diverse management practices with varying ecological impacts.
• Understanding social drivers behind management is key to enhancing urban ecosystem services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the ecological consequences of different urban green space management practices.
• To identify the social mechanisms driving these management strategies.
• To assess the role of informal management in supporting urban ecosystem services.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative surveys of species diversity and abundance for pollinators, seed dispersers, and insectivores.
• Qualitative studies on local management practices, institutions, and ecological knowledge.
• Comparative analysis of allotment gardens, cemeteries, and city parks in Stockholm, Sweden.

Main Results:

• Informal management in allotment gardens led to higher pollinator abundance.
• Differences in seed disperser and insectivore composition were observed across management types.
• Allotment gardeners demonstrated higher motivation, knowledge, and sense of place.

Conclusions:

• Informal management is crucial for urban ecosystem services and ecological resilience.
• Sense of place and local institutions foster effective management and knowledge.
• Co-management and improved information exchange can enhance urban ecological functionality.