Item

Abstract

Understanding local perceptions of ecosystem services and disservices is essential for capturing human-nature interactions within protected areas. Although these perceptions are embedded in socio-economic contexts, their variation across socio-demographic groups remains underexplored. Thus, we investigate how socio-demographic factors shape local perceptions of ecosystem services and disservices in the buffer zone of Langtang National Park, a Himalayan protected area. Using data from 105 semi-structured interviews and three focus group discussions with residents, we employed a mixed-method approach to data analysis, integrating descriptive statistics, an econometric probit model, and thematic analysis. Our results reveal that geographical location is a consistent determinant across most ecosystem (dis)service categories. Positive perceptions of services are driven mainly by tangible livelihood and economic benefits, while concerns about environmental degradation and justice underpin negative perceptions. Gender, ethnicity, and religion are significantly associated with perceptions of ecosystem disservices, including human health impacts (e.g., allergies) and governance-related challenges (e.g., legal complications and development constraints). The intensity of disservice perceptions is mediated by local forest composition, traditional and indigenous knowledge, and everyday interactions with nature. Our findings underscore that advancing sustainability in protected areas requires transdisciplinary approaches that integrate ecological science, geography, and socio-cultural values to foster resilient and adaptive socio-ecological systems.