A systematic literature review on sustainability assessment of protected areas

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.