Abstract
This article explores and validates the integrated use of the viable system model (VSM) and the partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) approach to assess the sustainable management of RAMSAR sites carrying out economic activities. This work adopts a systems-thinking approach integrating systemic methodologies in three phases: (1) the VSM was first used to develop a conceptual model of the organisational problem; (2) PLS-PM was used to propose a construct to outline a solution, as well as to statistically validate the relationships proposed in the conceptual model; finally, (3) through the VSM, the relationships between actors were rethought in order to promote sustainable performance. The results obtained suggest that the joint use of VSM and PLS-PM is an effective approach that aids in the identification of relational and structural pathologies affecting the observed RAMSAR systems. It also proved useful to suggest that relationships can lead to the sustainable performance of the sites under study. It should be noted that the framework of systemic tools is constrained in its application to the organisational domain: assessing two RAMSAR areas in Mexico. Methodologically, this is the first application of the integrated use of VSM and PLS-PM to analyse the management and viability/sustainability of RAMSAR areas from an organisational perspective, opening a new avenue for the analysis and optimisation of management of such areas. This study provides tools to support actors and academics related to RAMSAR sites and opens up a discussion on how to rethink the organisational interactions in order to improve RAMSAR sites’ adaptive capabilities.
Highlights
Sustainability continues to be a priority for different organisations
Regarding the Env variable, some common points were found with the work of Banson et al [15], Van Dyk and Pretorius [16], and Nikolaou et al [19], as the results indicate that the environment largely dictates the organisation of operational units to support the global strategy
In contrast to the aforementioned contributions, this study considers it necessary to delimit and articulate operational units using the viable system model (VSM) criteria to provide a distinctive and flexible structure to RAMSAR sites to comply with sustainable performance
Summary
Sustainability continues to be a priority for different organisations. Protected natural areas, such as RAMSAR sites, are subject to cross-cutting policies aimed at mitigating biodiversity loss for future use and at developing projects that integrate community groups, organisations, service providers and government institutions [1]. The Ramsar Convention is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. According to the Ramsar Convention [2], wetlands are a key component of sustainable development, because they supply all the fresh water, provide welfare and safety to people who live in or near them, they are amongst the world’s most productive environments, and provide a wide array of benefits. A constant difficulty in this regard is balancing the operationalisation of strategies that support the viability of productive activities, without neglecting the impact on the natural resources where they operate
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