The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (2005) defined cultural ecosystem services as “the nonmaterial benefits people obtain from ecosystems through spiritual enrichment, cognitive development, reflection, recreation, and aesthetic experiences.” This holistic approach, touching on the spiritual, emotional, and cultural aspects of life, highlights the vital role that ecosystems play in human well-being and fulfillment beyond their physical resources.

Biocultural heritage encompasses the interconnectedness of biological and cultural diversity, emphasizing the importance of traditional knowledge, practices, and cultural expressions in the sustainable management of ecosystems and perfectly translates the inextricable links between people and nature (Declaration of Belem, 1988). It recognizes that local communities have developed unique relationships with their natural environments over generations, shaping not only their cultural identities but also their ecological knowledge. This concept invites a broader understanding of cultural ecosystem services, as it integrates the role of practices of the communities and local wisdom in promoting biodiversity conservation. By valuing biocultural heritage, we can enhance our appreciation for the cultural dimensions of ecosystem services, ensuring that more diverse voices are heard and their contributions recognized in the pursuit of sustainability.

As we approach the 20th anniversary of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment synthesis, this milestone presents a unique opportunity to organize a workshop or symposium dedicated to reflecting on the progress made, current challenges, and future directions in the understanding and integration of cultural ecosystem services. Such a meeting could foster interdisciplinary dialogue, bringing together ecologists, social scientists, policymakers, and community leaders to explore how these services can be better conserved and leveraged for sustainable development and human well-being in the coming decades.

Moreover, the recent UN Pact for the Future (September 2024), elevates this discussion by highlighting culture as an integral component of sustainable development. For the first time, a global declaration recognizes the vital role that culture plays in sustainability efforts (Action 11), further underscoring the powerful link between cultural and ecological dimensions in the path toward a sustainable future.

The workshop aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of Cultural Ecosystem Services (CES), combining theoretical, methodological, and practical approaches. It is designed to foster a deep understanding of the relationship between ecosystems and cultural heritage, with a focus on the diversity of heritage found in specific locales.

The workshop will be structured into three main components:
 

1. Theoretical Component: Participants will discuss key concepts related to ES, CES, including biocultural heritage, biocultural diversity, ecosystem services, and the complex interactions between natural environments and cultural practices. In the preparatory stage of the workshop, this will lay the foundation for understanding how ecosystems contribute to cultural identity and heritage.
    

2. Methodological Component: This section will focus on the tools and methodologies used to identify, assess, and classify CES. Participants will explore different frameworks and approaches, including topics such as understanding, identification, and co-creation of CES, with a particular focus on citizen science and collaborative identification practices. The session will also delve into the application of georeferencing, digital humanities, artificial intelligence, and other cutting-edge tools for mapping and analyzing CES. These methodologies will provide participants with practical skills to document and evaluate the connections between cultural practices and ecosystems in a data-driven, innovative way.
    

3. Practical Component: The hands-on section of the workshop will involve field activities where participants will visit local heritage sites to observe biodiversity and its connections to cultural expressions such as craftsmanship, tourism, historical characterization, and transhumance practices. Field trips may include nature trails, biodiversity observation, and an exploration of cultural elements such as music, gastronomy, and local memory. Participants will identify and debate CES in the field, enhancing their ability to link ecological and cultural aspects in real-world settings.

The objectives of the workshop include a broad exploration of key concepts such as ecosystem services, culture, and biocultural heritage, while also emphasizing the significance of ecological approaches to conservation, particularly Nature-Based Solutions (NbS). NbS are strategies that use natural processes and ecosystems to address societal challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and the degradation of cultural landscapes. By integrating these concepts, participants will gain insights into how CES and NbS can work synergistically to promote sustainable development. This synergy not only enhances ecological resilience but also supports the preservation of cultural heritage, demonstrating how the natural environment and cultural identity can coalesce to promote holistic well-being for communities and ecosystems alike. 

It will also contribute to the ongoing debate on the classification of heritage, particularly within the framework of UNESCO, and in the context of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (2024-2033).

As a key output of the workshop, we aim to produce a white paper that articulates the current state of cultural ecosystem services and biocultural heritage, while addressing identified gaps and key messages derived from our discussions. This document will serve as a strategic resource for ARCHE’s Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA), providing insights that can inform the future partnership on Resilient Cultural Heritage. The white paper will outline the significance of integrating cultural ecosystem services with nature-based solutions, highlighting their potential to enhance both ecological resilience and cultural identity.

By synthesizing our findings and recommendations, we seek to create a compelling narrative that underscores the urgency of preserving cultural heritage within the context of environmental sustainability and resilience, and ultimately position our initiatives within broader policy frameworks and funding opportunities.