How is the ecosystem services concept used as a tool to foster collaborative ecosystem governance? A systematic map...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Conservation Biology
• Environmental Management

Background:

• The concept of ecosystem services (ES) is widely adopted but faces criticism regarding its practical utility for decision-makers.
• This study addresses the need to understand ES as a tool for collaboration, not just assessment.
• Criticism highlights a gap in understanding how ES can foster collaborative ecosystem governance and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map and analyze literature framing ecosystem services (ES) as a collaboration tool.
• To answer how the ES concept is utilized to foster collaborative ecosystem governance and management.
• To assess the usefulness of ES as a tool for collaborative environmental management.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across multiple databases (Web of Science, Scopus) and grey literature.
• Two-stage screening (title/abstract, then full text) based on specific inclusion criteria for ES as a collaboration tool.
• Critical appraisal of eligible studies, data extraction on tool type, rationale, empirical testing, findings, and challenges, followed by narrative synthesis.

Main Results:

• Analysis of literature where ES is framed as a tool for collaboration in environmental governance.
• Identification of mechanisms and approaches where ES facilitates joint activities and group processes.
• Evaluation of the reported usefulness and challenges of using ES as a collaborative management tool.

Conclusions:

• Ecosystem services (ES) show potential as a valuable tool for fostering collaborative ecosystem governance and management.
• Understanding the application of ES as a process tool can enhance its practical utility for decision-makers.
• Further research and empirical testing are needed to optimize the use of ES in collaborative environmental initiatives.