A systematic review of Nature’s Contributions to People: impacts on science, policy, and sustainability
Miguel Moreira, Joana Alves, Luciana Frazão, António C. Gouveia, Helena Freitas
Abstract
Abstract The conceptual framework of the Intergovernmental Science–Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) for natural resources management and conservation was materialised in the Nature’s Contributions to People (NCP) approach in 2018. Since then, the application of the NCP framework has expanded significantly across diverse scales and case studies. In this systematic review, we assessed how the NCP approach has contributed to the scientific and policy fields, focusing on natural resource management, human–nature relationships, or social–ecological aspects. We identified the main strengths of the NCP approach, especially the relational values that emphasise the mutual benefits and co-production between humans and nature, and the applicability and communication of the NCP approach across different spatial scales, contexts, and audiences. Furthermore, we explore the integration of the NCP approach with the ecosystem services (ES) concept and the co-production perspective. While the NCP framework enriches scientific and societal engagement in nature conservation, its limited focus on abiotic (non-living) ecosystem components and processes presents a gap. These elements are critical for ecosystem functionality and the delivery of Nature’s Contributions to People. To address this, we propose complementing the NCP approach with frameworks that explicitly incorporate ES typologies, fostering a more comprehensive and holistic perspective. Lastly, we present insights into the key topics that arose from our review, proposing further research and future developments that could be developed and framed within the NCP methodological approach.