Using co-creation to build knowledge on cultural ecosystem services–A tiered approach for enhanced regional economic development of Réunion Island

Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES) are highly context-specific and inherently linked to local identity, which challenges their assessment. Participatory methods have proven to capture the multiple values and aspects of CES for local communities. This paper presents an attempt to understand the different dimensions of CES in the Saint-Philippe municipality, Réunion Island, France. We applied a tiered, participatory approach that utilises knowledge co-creation processes over a period of 3 years. First, we co-created the aim of the research and brought together focus groups and participatory GIS mapping. In a second step, we used an expert-based matrix assessment to estimate CES supply capacities and added social big data using InVEST modelling of CES flows. Outputs of these processes are 1) the mapping of important landscape features, 2) ecosystem capacities for CES supply and 3) modelled use of CES. Results of the participatory GIS mapping show 110 features linked to CES supply in the municipal area, including historic sites, recreational areas, and non-timber forest products such as pandanus leaves and vanilla production. Based on land use classes, the capacities of the landscapes to supply emblematic or symbolic values, landscape aesthetics and recreational activities were assessed. Ten experts contributed to the assessment in workshop format in February 2023. Spatial information on recreation patterns show that visitation mostly took place alongside the coast and along hiking trails, mainly corresponding with landscape aesthetics. Accessibility of sites close to infrastructure was found to be an important governing factor. The coastline, with its rocky basaltic shores, was highly appreciated. The outcomes of this co-creation approach show the value of ES for tourism and regional economic activities. Bringing this information together allows identifying the contribution of ecosystems to regional economic activities and informing policy and decision-makers with recommendations for enhanced land use planning and economic development.