Based on 329 empirical studies, this systematic review synthesizes three decades of research on protected area (PA) sustainability assessment, tracing its evolution from fragmented, ecology-focused case studies to a global, practice-driven field. Conceptually, four cumulative definitional paradigms are identified: ecocentric, multi-dimensional balance, social-ecological system, and governance process-oriented, evolving from static carrying capacity to dynamic adaptability and procedural justice. Methodologically, this review reconstructs a three-tier hierarchy, including conceptual frameworks, four core methodological paradigms, and supporting technologies, resolving terminological confusion. Despite progress, three core gaps persist: decoupling between concepts and operationalization, unclear multi-dimensional trade-off assessment, and the lack of feedback loops between assessment and adaptive management. To address these gaps, future research should develop integrated frameworks, advance trade-off decision-support tools, shift from a static description toward a dynamic assessment, and promote translation of assessment outputs to management actions. This review provides a structured foundation for optimizing PA sustainability assessment and bridging the gap between scientific research and practical management.
Wang et al. (Tue,) studied this question.