Defining social-ecological systems in south-west Bangladesh

Abstract

Seven distinct social-ecological systems are defined for the Bangladesh delta, based on analysis of the ways in which social systems differ according to the ecological system. These systems are rain-fed and irrigated agriculture, brackish and freshwater aquaculture, Charlands, coastal zones, and areas dependent on the Sundarbans mangrove forest. The social systems that inhibit or facilitate access to ecosystem services vary between social-ecological systems. The timing and nature of ecosystem services give rise to different livelihood opportunities, means of access to ecosystem services, and coping mechanisms. Thus, while the common challenge across all social-ecological systems is to design mechanisms by which the poorest populations retain value and benefits, these mechanisms will differ depending on the system.