Understanding water governance based on the social-ecological system framework integrating stakeholder perspective: A case study of aquaculture pollution governance in Taihu Lake, China

Identifying the mechanisms behind interactions within the social-ecological system (SES) of the environmental micro-governance process is crucial for promoting sustainable environmental improvement. To illustrate the operational logic and the SES interaction mechanisms of water governance, a representative area of aquaculture pollution governance (APG) in Yixing City, China, was selected as a case study. In this study, the SES theory was integrated with stakeholders' perceptions, and a modified framework for APG was constructed. Key variables, SES action situations, social-ecological benefits, aquaculturists' perceptions of governance, and its influencing factors were analyzed through interviews, questionnaires, field surveys and an ordered logit model. Results reveal that the implementation of APG involved a complex SES interaction process, in which ecological performance is prioritized over social performance. In this collective action, aquaculturists' perceptions shifted in response to policy implementation, with the reported support and satisfaction degrees being lower than response degree. Additionally, the three dimensions of policy perception were influenced by different SES variables. A central role was played by the government in promoting collective action for APG, with fair compensation for aquaculturists identified as a crucial factor. The dynamic interactions within the SES of water governance were revealed, and aquaculturists' perceptions of governance in improving the lake's ecological environment, along with the factors shaping their perceptions, were clarified. The findings provide insights for addressing complex water governance issues. Understanding the SES dynamics and stakeholders' perceptions can offer valuable references for policymakers to improve the sustainability and socio-ecological benefits of water governance. • A modified SES framework was applied to assess aquaculture pollution governance. • SES interactions in aquaculture pollution governance were systematically analyzed. • Stakeholder perceptions and influencing factors varied across governance stages. • Social-ecological sustainability in top-down water governance needs improvement. • Findings provide insights for improving aquaculture pollution governance practices.