Assessing local people's perceptions of ecosystem services to support land management plans in arid desert regions, northwest China

Abstract

Deserts play a significant role in terrestrial ecosystems, but their importance is often underestimated in research due to the undervaluation of ecosystem services (ES), particularly the absence of environmental stakeholder perspectives. This study utilized the social science research methodology to investigate the identification and perceptions of desert ES, and the perceived changes in the significance and accessibility of these services following land use alteration among two groups with distinct livelihood strategies in the arid desert region of Northwest China. The study identified 28 ES; with water being the top priority for all; herbs, water and fodder were considered significantly reduced by 78.69 %, 55.74 % and 50.82 % of the PPG, while 62.69 %, 37.31 % and 32.84 % of the APG considered herbs, sense of belonging and link to ancestors to be significantly decreased. The research also explored the potential of social science research methods for assessing ES and contributing to understanding environmental stakeholders' needs and perceptions. It is recommended that future ecological conservation and land project development prioritizes the livelihoods, emotional well-being, and cultural needs of residents. This approach will contribute to the long-term sustainability of both the environment and the project, while also safeguarding the well-being of residents.

Keywords

• Ecosystem services
• Arid desert regions
• Stakeholder
• Land use change
• Sustainable development