Local community attitudes towards mangrove forest conservation

Local communities have preferences and expectations regarding mangrove ecosystems that are typically underrepresented in valuation studies. Therefore, this study identifies how the local community of Mahahual (Mexico) perceives ecosystem services provided by forest these differ between households. A survey was designed one authors stakeholders building on previous knowledge experts (local environmental research centre non-governmental organisation Takata its biology coastal conservation, ecotourism businesses’ owners, mayor village). The is used to cover a wide range such as carbon sequestration, recreation cultural activities well improved connectivity with seagrass beds coral reefs. Ecosystem were specifically chosen biologists ecologists NGO perfectly reflect mangroves ecosystem. small land area village, low population rapid expansion offer unique context, aiming at preserving natural environment while keeping mind main economy based tourism. While greatly appreciated for protective they provide protection, inhabitants also care about wider impact biodiversity sequestration. We find educational background plays an important role determining importance information provision can help counterbalance effect. observe specific close residents live coast, which accentuates different needs ideas households their neighbourhood.