Linking perceptions of ecological restoration projects’ impacts on ecosystem services and human well-being for achieving regional sustainability

Abstract

Understanding how stakeholders’ perceptions of ecosystem service (ES) and human well-being (HWB) impacted by ecological restoration projects (ERPs) is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Howerver, few studies have explored how these impacts are perceived by stakeholders, particularly in terms of the link between ES and HWB from a human perception perspective. This study surveyed 203 residents of Dongting Lake area using a questionnaire that assessed 18 ESs and 9 HWBs to explore how personal characteristics influence perceptions of ERP impacts. It was found that the perception scores of 18 ES and 9 HWB were not less than 0, indicating that local respondents strongly recognized the positive role of ERPs in enhancing ESs and HWBs. Perception scores were negatively correlated with age but positively associated with education level and positive ERP impacts on individuals, while income level had no significant effect. Analysis of 18 ESs and 9 HWBs perceptions showed that 83.95% of relationships were significantly correlated, suggesting a comprehensive link between ESs and HWBs at the perceptual perspective. Future ERP policies should prioritize enhancing stakeholders’ perceived benefits of ERP impacts on both ESs and HWBs. This study highlighted the importance of linking perceptions of ERP impacts on ESs and HWBs to support stakeholders’ livelihoods and foster reginal sustainability.