Assessing sense of place and cultural ecosystem services in shallow Baltic Sea bays to inform coastal restoration

This study examines people–place relationships in shallow bays on the Swedish Baltic Sea coast prior to ecological restoration. Using surveys and in-depth interviews, combined with biophysical assessments, it characterizes nearby property owners’ cultural ecosystem services (CES) and sense of place (SOP), examines if they are impacted by environmental degradation, and explores links between CES/SOP and restoration processes. Results show a rich diversity of CES and place meanings, grounded in environmental features and social relations, with nature-related experiences most prevalent. Emotional bonds highlight the cultural, relational, and personal significance of the bays. Measured degradation is recognized by residents and associated with a loss of CES and place meanings. Local conditions for restoration support appear favourable, alongside potential goal conflicts between ecological improvements and some recreational uses. The study underscores the importance of inclusive CES/SOP assessments to acknowledge heterogeneous values and trade-offs, supporting socially accepted and culturally relevant coastal restoration and conservation.