Conceptualising cultural ecosystem services: A novel framework for research and critical engagement

The construction of culture as a class of ecosystem service presents a significant test of the holistic ambitions of an ecosystems approach to decision making. In this paper we explore the theoretical challenges arising from efforts to understand ecosystems as objects of cultural concern and consider the operational complexities associated with understanding how, and with what consequences, knowledge about cultural ecosystem services are created, communicated and accounted for in real world decision making. We specifically forward and develop a conceptual framework for understanding cultural ecosystem services and related benefits in terms of the environmental spaces and cultural practices that arise from…

• LC
  Llywodraeth Cymru
• DF
  Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, UK Government
• AA
  Arts and Humanities Research Council

  Awards: AH/I507655/1, AH/J006866/1
• EA
  Economic and Social Research Council
• NE
  Natural Environment Research Council