Social-ecological systems (SES) research points to different ways in which social-ecological integration can occur – conceptual (i.e. considering both social and ecological system components and their interactions), disciplinary (i.e. incorporating approaches from multiple disciplines), methodological (i.e. incorporating multiple frameworks, tools and/or theories and using both qualitative and quantitative methods) and functional (i.e. bridging science with policy or practice through the integration of different stakeholders and researchers in the research process and the merging of conceptual with problem-solving approaches to identify actionable recommendations). Although the potential of mainstreamed and integrated SES approaches is often not fully realised, several approaches have been proposed to achieve management that better integrates the social and ecological dimensions of resource systems. Using 12 case studies all over the word, applications, challenges and opportunities to mainstream integrative approaches are identified. This included a reflection on how early career researchers perceive and experience these challenges and what opportunities should be promoted for transformative training and sustainability initiatives.
Integrative social-ecological approaches are crucial for addressing sustainability challenges in coastal and marine systems. Among these, Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) emerges as a pivotal approach for integrated management. Often, the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and the application of MSP occur in parallel. Given the potential synergies, there is a need to better understand and address barriers to the adoption of MSP approaches for integrative conservation mechanisms. Using São Tomé and Príncipe as a case study, I illustrated how MSP was employed as an operational framework for establishing an MPA network. For example, applying MSP was perceived to contribute substantially to multiple project goals, with some (e.g. incorporating perspectives and needs of vulnerable groups) more challenging to achieve. While MSP enhanced conceptual, disciplinary, methodological and functional integration, practical challenges in implementation hindered the extent to which each of these was achieved. This case study illustrated how MSP can promote social-ecological integration, but resource and time constraints, combined with complexity on the ground, prevent MSP from achieving its full potential. Challenges faced were particularly related to data requirements, stakeholder engagement and cross-sectoral considerations, with the realities of MSP often contrasting with its conceptual ideals. These reflections on enablers and barriers ultimately contribute to a realistic reflection on the implementation of MSP in conservation, and the challenges and opportunities it presents. Ultimately, this knowledge will provide critical insights into how to improve the robustness of management decisions, with implications for the social and ecological resilience of SES.
