Operationalizing the social-ecological systems framework in a protected area: a case study of Qilian Mountain National Park, Northwestern China

Abstract

The theory of social-ecological systems (SESs) provides an ideal tool for understanding complex human-nature systems in protected areas. We adopt Ostrom’s SESs framework to analyze the complex interactions within Qilian Mountain National Park (QMNP), an essential ecological security barrier in China. Through qualitative and quantitative analyses of action situations, we identify the interactions among the resource system, resource units, governance system, and actors. The results show that applying the SESF in protected areas is feasible and operable; the development level of ecosystems in QMNP is better than that of the social systems; and the coupling coordination among the four subsystems is at primary coordination (0.6–0.7), indicating that the interaction between four subsystems needs to be strengthened. Moreover, the comprehensive evaluation index and the interactions between subsystems differ among townships, indicating the necessity for tailored management strategies. We emphasize integrating social components into protected areas management to achieve sustainable development and resilience in SESs.

Keywords

• action situations
• interaction
• protected area
• qilian mountain national park
• social-ecological systems framework