Dynamic Simulation Models and Participatory Approaches to Support the Sustainable Management of Social-Ecological Systems in Natural Protected Areas

Abstract

The management of natural protected areas should embrace the complexity of social-ecological systems that are often embedded in these areas, and they depend on their ecosystem services. Recently, the study of social-ecological systems has emerged with a growing theoretical framework. However, the complexity of social-ecological systems and abstraction of theoretical approaches challenge the application of social-ecological frameworks to support the management of protected areas. In this chapter, we introduce a methodological framework, based on the system dynamics approach, that includes participatory workshops, expert panels, and simulation tools to help improve our understanding of the structural causes of problematic behaviors and to evaluate alternative management options, supporting the adaptive management of protected areas. This methodological framework could help us to test in advance the effectiveness and robustness of alternative policies and management options, avoiding the waste of economic resources, time, and efforts based on unrealistic expectations or the lack of knowledge. The participation of local stakeholders is needed to encourage the appropriation of the results and the execution and monitoring of the management measures or action proposed.