Conceptualization of natural heritage in the context of the ecosystem approach

Abstract

The article aims to explore natural heritage as a socio-ecological phenomenon. The definitions and cycle of development of the concept of natural heritage is explained. The process of provision and demand of ecosystem services that benefit socio-environmental systems is presented to illustrate how an element of the natural system becomes natural heritage. As a result of the analysis, the authors propose a definition of ‘natural heritage’ in the context of an ecosystem-based approach. The results would support the sustainable use of natural heritage sites for the development of nature-based tourism.

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