- The research process has made it obvious that the scientific background of the ecosystem services approach is often not easy to communicate. In addition, the stakeholder communication process is strongly connected to stakeholder perceptions and experiences. Stakeholders typically express their perceptions and needs in social terms. An understanding of the social impacts is necessary to help integrate the concept of ecosystem services into planning processes, allowing the translation of the various stakeholder perspectives into scientific discussions on ecosystem services.
- The guideline optimizes decision-making processes by applying qualitative research. As shown, this kind of research incorporates social demands into ecosystem-based research and thereby allows a better understanding of human well-being. In addition, it reduces the complexity of scientific language and helps to engage stakeholders.