Participatory socio-ecological system: Manglaralto-Santa Elena, Ecuador

Abstract

A socio-ecological system describes dynamics and interactions between society and ecosystems, through social, economic, and ecological processes that influence the state of natural resources. The aim of this paper is to describe the socio-ecological system of Manglaralto through participatory action research in order to understand human ecodynamics and the perception of beneficiaries about ecosystem services focus to the planning of a participatory ecofuture scenario for Manglaralto. The sustainable management of the Manglaralto coastal aquifer has been identified as a key activity. The key stakeholders involved in the socio-ecological system of Manglaralto are the population of rural community, the Manglaralto Regional Drinking Water Management Board, associations, and economic activities, highlighting the tourism. Agriculture ceased to be the most important economic activity in Manglaralto. Its inhabitants have strengthened other economic activities such as small businesses of buying and selling, fishing, and tourism because of its coastal geographical location and the natural and cultural attractions of great tourist potential that it has. A future is glimpsed based on the sustainable use of ecosystem services such as water and tourism.