Biospheres reserves and social-ecological well-being: the case of Tehuacán-Cuicatlán, Mexico

Abstract Biosphere reserves (BRs) have been effective in safeguarding biodiversity, yet their implementation has resulted in contentious outcomes for local communities. In this study, we examine the impact of a BR in southern Mexico on the social-ecological well-being (SEWB) of a peasant community. A total of 38 semi-structured and informal interviews were conducted with local residents and park rangers, and qualitative data collection and analysis methods were employed. The findings indicate that, while there are some similarities, there are also notable differences in the perceptions of local people and park rangers regarding the main components of the SEWB of the local population. Furthermore, our findings indicate that both local residents and park rangers perceive the positive impacts of the BR on the natural environment in a similar manner. However, there are discrepancies in their assessments of the social benefits generated by the BR’s actions and projects. Additionally, the community exhibits disparate perceptions regarding the impacts of the BR contingent on people’s land tenure regime. While comuneros hold positive perceptions, ejidatarios view the BR’s actions and projects as exacerbating existing inequalities and social conflicts within the community. For the BR to meaningfully contribute to the SEWB of local people, its management must explicitly integrate a socio-ecological approach, ensuring a balance between the conservation of the natural environment and human well-being, and acknowledging local value systems and alternative perspectives on society-nature relationships.