Abstract
Ecosystem services enhance well-being and the livelihoods of disadvantaged communities. Civic ecology can enhance social-ecological systems; however, their contributions to ecosystem services are rarely measured. We analysed the outcomes of civic ecology interventions undertaken in Durban, South Africa, as part of the Wise Wayz Water Care programme (the case study). Using mixed methods (household and beneficiary (community members implementing interventions) surveys, interviews, field observations, and workshops), we identified ecosystem service use and values, as well as the benefits of six interventions (solid waste management and removal from aquatic and terrestrial areas, recycling, invasive alien plant control, river water quality monitoring, vegetable production, and community engagement). Ecosystem services were widely used for agriculture, subsistence, and cultural uses. River water was used for crop irrigation, livestock, and recreation. Respondents noted numerous improvements to natural habitats: decrease in invasive alien plants, less pollution, improved condition of wetlands, and increased production of diverse vegetables. Improved habitats were linked to enhanced ecosystem services: clean water, agricultural production, harvesting of wood, and increased cultural and spiritual activities. Key social benefits were increased social cohesion, education, and new business opportunities. We highlight that local communities can leverage natural capital for well-being and encourage policy support of civic ecology initiatives.
Highlights
IntroductionIt is predicted that anthropogenic environmental pressures will intensify in the future, resulting in further environmental degradation, climate change, and pollution, and impacting on the ability of natural capital to provide ecosystem services [1,2,3]
Civic ecology programme? (2) What are the various benefits of civic ecology practices to the social–ecological system of disadvantaged communities, with respect to ecosystem services? (3) How do ecosystem services uses and values differ between the beneficiaries and the broader community? In answering these questions, we explored how increased knowledge of ecosystems through civic ecology practices in social–ecological systems contribute to the protection and increased use and benefit of ecosystem services, both for beneficiaries and other members of disadvantaged communities
Our study showed that increased knowledge of ecosystems through civic ecology practices contributed to the protection and increased use and benefit of ecosystem services, both for beneficiaries and other members of disadvantages communities
Summary
It is predicted that anthropogenic environmental pressures will intensify in the future, resulting in further environmental degradation, climate change, and pollution, and impacting on the ability of natural capital to provide ecosystem services [1,2,3]. Ecosystems and their services, or “nature’s contributions to people (NCP)” [4], are essential to support human well-being. Sustainability 2021, 13, 1300 and development [2]. Ecosystems and people are interdependent and intertwined through the concept of social–ecological systems
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