The valuation and mapping of ecosystem services (ES) and their linkages to human well-being represent a critical research frontier aimed at understanding, quantifying, and communicating the diverse benefits that nature provides to people—including provisioning (e.g., food and water), regulating (e.g., climate control, pollination), cultural (e.g., spiritual, recreational), and supporting services (e.g., soil formation). Ecosystem services serve as a powerful bridging concept between ecological processes and human well-being, emphasizing the deep interdependence between societies and the natural systems they inhabit. This research embraces a plural and multi-dimensional approach to valuation, recognizing that nature holds diverse meanings and values—monetary, social, cultural, psychological, and intrinsic—that vary across worldviews, knowledge systems, and stakeholder groups. Central to this work is the use of spatially explicit tools such as remote sensing, GIS, and participatory mapping to visualize where services are generated, how they flow across landscapes, and who benefits or is left behind. These spatial insights are essential for identifying trade-offs, synergies, and potential conflicts, and for informing policies that balance ecological integrity with social equity. Human well-being is viewed holistically—encompassing material needs, health, security, agency, and identity—underscoring how access to and distribution of ecosystem servicesshape livelihoods and resilience, particularly in vulnerable or resource-dependent communities. By highlighting these complex linkages and integrating them into governance processes through inclusive, participatory, and transdisciplinary approaches, this research aims to support more equitable, informed, and sustainable management of socio-ecological systems.

Antonio Castro

Antonio J.

Cristina

Enrica

Daniela

Valuation and mapping of ecosystem services forhuman wellbeing

Research on socio-ecological systems (SES) for conservation conflict resolution is grounded in the recognition that environmental challenges are inherently complex, shaped by the dynamic interplay between ecological processes and diverse social, cultural, economic, and political dimensions. This research line views conservation conflicts not merely as disputes over natural resources or biodiversity protection but as symptoms of deeper governance, equity, and value-based tensions between stakeholders with differing interests, worldviews, and power. A key principle is the systems-thinking approach, which emphasizes the interdependencies, feedbacks, and adaptive capacity of coupled human–natural systems. By framing conservation conflicts within the SES framework, researchers seek to uncover the root causes of conflict—such as unequal access to resources, historical injustices, or competing land-use priorities—while also identifying pathways toward coexistence, resilience, and sustainable governance. Central to this work is the integration of diverse knowledge systems and stakeholder perspectives, including scientific, local, and Indigenous knowledge, recognizing that effective conflict resolution requires inclusive, participatory, and context-sensitive processes. The research places strong emphasis on governance structures and institutional arrangements, exploring how rules, norms, and decision-making processes can mediate or exacerbate tensions. It highlights the importance of legitimacy, transparency, and trust in fostering collaborative solutions and adaptive management strategies. Power asymmetries are critically examined, acknowledging that conservation initiatives often privilege certain groups over others, leading to marginalization, resistance, or unintended socio-environmental outcomes. Addressing these asymmetries is essential for achieving just and enduring outcomes. Another core principle is the role of values and perceptions—how different actors conceptualize nature, conservation, and development—and how these influence their behavior, expectations, and willingness to cooperate. The research also explores trade-offs and synergies between conservation goals and human well-being, aiming to identify win-win scenarios where biodiversity protection aligns with social justice, livelihood security, and cultural identity. In this regard, conflict is not seen solely as a problem to be eliminated but as a potential driver of positive change when managed constructively. Methodologically, the field is inherently transdisciplinary, drawing from ecology, political science, sociology, psychology, economics, and conflict studies. It employs both qualitative and quantitative tools, including participatory mapping, scenario analysis, stakeholder interviews, institutional analysis, and agent-based modeling to understand system dynamics and anticipate the impacts of different interventions. Reflexivity, humility, and ethical engagement are emphasized throughout the research process, as scholars often work directly with communities, NGOs, and policymakers in sensitive and contested settings. The goal is not to prescribe one-size-fits-all solutions but to co-develop locally tailored strategies that are ecologically sound, socially acceptable, and politically feasible. Finally, this research line contributes to broader debates on conservation futures in a rapidly changing world, where biodiversity loss, climate change, and social inequalities converge. It advocates for adaptive and polycentric governance approaches capable of responding to uncertainty and change, and for embedding justice, resilience, and co-management principles at the heart of conservation planning. By embracing complexity and pluralism, socio-ecological systems research for conservation conflict resolution seeks to transform conflict into opportunity, bridging divides between people and nature while fostering more inclusive and sustainable socio-environmental futures.

Antonio

Juanmi

Juan M.

Socio-Ecological systems science for conservation conflict resolution

The valuation and mapping of biocultural diversity is an emerging research field that explores the intertwined relationships between biological and cultural diversity, recognizing that ecosystems and human cultures co-evolve and shape one another across time and space. This research is grounded in the principle that biodiversity and cultural diversity are not isolated phenomena but are deeply interconnected through shared knowledge systems, land-use practices, belief systems, and languages that reflect and sustain the diversity of life on Earth. Central to this field is the acknowledgment of Indigenous and local knowledge systems as vital sources of ecological understanding and as living expressions of cultural identity and resilience. Valuing biocultural diversity therefore involves more than economic or ecological assessments; it requires a pluralistic approach that respects and incorporates diverse worldviews, including spiritual, symbolic, historical, and place-based meanings of nature. Mapping biocultural diversity spatially is a key methodological tool, enabling researchers to visualize where high levels of biodiversity coincide with rich cultural landscapes, such as sacred natural sites, traditional agricultural systems, or linguistic hotspots. These spatial insights can reveal critical areas of conservation importance that conventional ecological assessments may overlook, especially in regions where cultural practices play a pivotal role in sustaining ecosystem functions. The research emphasizes participatory and transdisciplinary approaches, engaging with local communities, knowledge holders, and stakeholders in the co-production of knowledge, thus fostering empowerment and stewardship. A major focus is on documenting and preserving biocultural heritage in the face of rapid socio-environmental change, such as land-use transformation, climate change, globalization, and cultural homogenization, which threaten both biodiversity and cultural continuity. The field also explores governance mechanisms that support the rights, agency, and knowledge of Indigenous peoples and local communities, promoting inclusive conservation strategies that align with the principles of equity, justice, and sustainability. Ultimately, the valuation and mapping of biocultural diversity aim to inform policy and practice by making visible the often-overlooked cultural dimensions of biodiversity, supporting conservation models that are more holistic, culturally grounded, and socially just. This research contributes to broader efforts toward biocultural sustainability—where the health of ecosystems and the vitality of human cultures are recognized as mutually reinforcing pillars of resilient socio-ecological systems.

Cristina Quintas Soriano

Antonio J. Castro

Daniela Alba Patino

Youssra El Ghafraoui

Youssra

Irene Otamendi Urroz

Irene 

Valuation and mapping of Biocultural Diversity

Research on urban biodiversity for climate change mitigation and adaptation is grounded in the recognition that cities are both critical contributors to climate change and vulnerable to its impacts, while also offering unique opportunities for nature-based solutions. This field emphasizes the essential role of biodiversity—particularly in urban green and blue spaces—in enhancing the resilience of cities by regulating microclimates, reducing urban heat island effects, improving air and water quality, sequestering carbon, and managing stormwater. A key principle of this research isthe multifunctionality of urban ecosystems, which simultaneously provide ecological, social, and climatic benefits. Urban biodiversity contributes not only to environmental health but also to human well-being by supporting mental and physical health, recreational opportunities, and social cohesion. This research recognizes the importance of protecting, restoring, and designing biodiverse urban landscapes that are adaptable to future climate scenarios, integrating native species, ecological connectivity, and habitat heterogeneity into urban planning and infrastructure. Another core principle is equity—ensuring that access to biodiverse spaces and their benefits is inclusive and just, especially for marginalized and underserved communities who often face disproportionate exposure to environmental risks. The research also stresses the importance of participatory governance and co-creation, engaging local communities, planners, ecologists, and policymakers in the design and management of urban green infrastructure. Biodiversity is not only a passive component of urban adaptation strategies but an active agent of transformation, capable of reshaping how cities function and interact with the broader environment. Mapping and monitoring urban biodiversity using toolslike remote sensing, citizen science, and biodiversity indicators are essential for evaluating ecological performance and informing adaptive management. The field also draws from systems thinking, viewing cities as dynamic socio-ecological systems where feedback loops and trade-offs between land use, biodiversity, and climate responses must be carefully balanced. Ultimately, this research aims to reframe urbanization from a threat to biodiversity into an opportunity for regenerative design, where cities become hotspots of ecological innovation and climate action. By embedding biodiversity into climate strategies, urban areas can become more livable, sustainable, and resilient in the face of accelerating global change, making biodiversity not only a conservation goal but a central pillar of urban climate resilience.

Enrica Garau

Sean Goodwin

Sean

Urban Biodiversity for Climate Change mitigation and adaptation

The research on sustainability and governance of agri-food systems centerson the urgent need to transform how food is produced, distributed, and consumed to address interlinked challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, food insecurity, and social inequality. At its core, this field views agri-food systems as complex, multi-scalar socio-ecological systems where ecological processes, market dynamics, political institutions, and cultural values interact. A key principle is the integration of sustainability across environmental, economic, and social dimensions—promoting practices that maintain ecosystem health, support rural livelihoods, ensure fair access to food, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Governance is approached as a critical lever for transformation, emphasizing the role of institutions, policies, and powerrelations in shaping how agri-food systems function and who benefits or bears the costs. This includes analyzing global value chains, land tenure systems, subsidies, and trade agreements, as well as the growing influence of corporate actors and financialization in agriculture. The research also highlights the importance of local food systems, agroecological practices, and short supply chains as pathways to enhance resilience, food sovereignty, and community empowerment. Participatory and inclusive governance mechanisms—such as multi-stakeholder platforms, food policy councils, and farmer-led innovation—are emphasized as vital tools for fostering democratic decision-making and knowledge co-production. Another foundational principle is the need for equity andjustice, acknowledging historical and structural inequalities within food systems that disproportionately affect smallholders, women, Indigenous peoples, and migrant laborers. Interdisciplinarity is essential, drawing from ecology, economics, political science, sociology, and public health to understand system dynamics and guide transitions. The research also employs a variety of tools, including life cycle assessments, food system mapping, scenario analysis, and policy evaluations to assess trade-offs andguide evidence-based interventions. Emphasis is placed on circularity, diversification, and landscape-level integration of food production with conservation and climate goals. Ultimately, this research seeks to support the development of agri-food systemsthat are not only productive and efficient but also just, inclusive, and resilient—capable of withstanding future shocks and contributing to broader sustainability transformations. By reshaping how food is governed and valued, this field aims to enable transitions toward agri-food systems that nourish people, regenerate ecosystems, and foster equitable social relations at local to global scales.

Juan M. Requena Mullor

Álvaro Peláez

Álvaro

Patricia

Sustainability and governance of agri-food systems

This research program is designed to address the critical challenges of global change, specifically the degradation of nature and the unsustainable management of socio-ecological systems, through advanced, transparent, and actionable quantitative science. 

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The research line is built on a foundation of quantitative ecology, scientific programming, and a firm commitment to open-science principles. It leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) and mechanistic modeling to develop robust predictive capabilities and decision-support frameworks. A key differentiator is the emphasis on integrating open-access data and open-source computational tools to ensure full transparency, reproducibility, and accessibility of all research outcomes.

: To create and validate AI-powered monitoring systems capable of detecting, predicting, and mitigating ecological disruptions. An application is the development of early-warning systems for pest outbreaks in intensive agriculture, aiming to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides and enhance ecosystem resilience significantly.

: To enhance predictive accuracy by fusing diverse data streams, including remote sensing imagery, open-access environmental datasets, and advanced ecological models. This integration will produce dynamic, real-time assessments of environmental health for land managers and policymakers.

Co-Development of Implementable Solutions

: To ensure scientific rigor is matched by practical utility, the research will incorporate participatory approaches, actively engaging local stakeholders and partners. This ensures the technological solutions are aligned with socio-economic realities and are readily adoptable.

We seek to transform the field of global change adaptation by providing scientifically rigorous, AI-enhanced, and openly shared tools that empower societies to manage their socio-ecological systems more sustainably and resiliently.

Research Lines