Local preferences and factors determining priorities for mangrove ecosystem services provided by the Sembilang National Park, Indonesia

Effective policymaking for mangrove conservation requires a clear understanding of the value that local communities attribute to mangrove ecosystems as well as their impact on community livelihoods and overall well‐being. This study aims to (i) explore local perceptions regarding the mangroves in Sembilang National Park (SNP) and (ii) examine the factors influencing those perceptions. Drawing on a Mangrove Ecosystems Services (MES) approach, survey fieldwork was conducted in three coastal communities within and around SNP. A total of six services were identified by respondents as very important for material well‐being and livelihoods, including habitat for fish, biodiversity, mangrove supporting services, fisheries and coastal protection (provisioning services), and cultural services. Furthermore, multinomial logistic regression results showed that the socio‐demographic attributes of the respondents, including age, education, household size, experience, occupation, and income, significantly influenced preferences for MES. This indicates the importance of considering such factors in mangrove ecosystem management strategies. A clearer understanding of locally recognized and appreciated MES, is essential for effective community‐based mangrove management. Conversely, underappreciated services require greater attention to ensure sustainable utilization. These preferences are context‐specific and may vary depending on the community's socio‐economic and cultural conditions. In conclusion, the results provide an initial framework for integrating local perceptions into policy and management initiatives, with specific focus on sustainable management of MES at the community level.