Constraints and enablers for meaningful consideration of plural values through integration of cultural ecosystem services (CES) in decision-making

By: , and 
Edited by: Pamela D. McElweeKaren E. AllenRachelle K. GouldMinna Hsu, and Jun He

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Abstract

This chapter presents and applies five constraint/enabler categories that influence integration of the plural values of cultural ecosystem services (CES) in decision-making, highlighting how diverse forms of CES knowledge can intersect with decision making contexts. CES make foundational contributions to human well-being, and yet they are consistently underrepresented in research products intended to inform decision-making. In particular, the relational and holistic values associated with CES categories such as cultural identity and maintenance of knowledge systems have been inadequately conveyed through existing instrumental approaches to ecosystem service assessment and ecosystem valuation. In this chapter we detail (1) a spectrum of forms in which CES knowledge may be conveyed to inform decision-making and (2) constraints and enabling factors that influence whether plural CES values are meaningfully considered in decision-making. This chapter considers how these constraints/enablers commonly influence integration of distinct CES knowledge forms in natural resource management decision contexts. Examples are then offered from case study research on Elwha River dam removal decision-making (Washington state, USA). These examples illustrate that factors commonly constraining integration of diverse CES knowledge forms can transform into enablers for meaningful consideration of relational values and holistic value perspectives, alongside instrumental values. The chapter concludes with takeaways for decision-makers, managers, and those who hold CES knowledge and seek to convey plural CES values to inform decision-making.

Publication type Book chapter
Publication Subtype Book Chapter
Title Constraints and enablers for meaningful consideration of plural values through integration of cultural ecosystem services (CES) in decision-making
Chapter 31
DOI 10.4324/9781003414896-37
Publication Date May 28, 2025
Year Published 2025
Language English
Publisher Taylor & Francis
Contributing office(s) Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
Description 18 p.
Larger Work Type Book
Larger Work Subtype Monograph
Larger Work Title Routledge handbook of cultural ecosystem services
First page 408
Last page 425
Additional publication details