Visual scenario preferences as social–ecological indicators of urban rewilding support: Evidence from six Pennsylvania cities

Urban rewilding is gaining recognition as a strategy for enhancing ecological resilience and quality of life in cities. This study introduces the use of visual scenario-based surveying as a form of social–ecological indicator to assess public support for varying intensities of urban rewilding. A 13-question online survey was conducted with 1200 respondents across six cities in Pennsylvania. Five visual scenarios, each representing a distinct context—emotional response, ecological vision, housing affordability, recreation, and development cost—were used to gauge preferences for three rewilding intensities: minimal, moderate, and intensive. Results showed strong contextual variation in public preferences. Moderate rewilding was most widely supported overall, particularly in emotional, ecological, and affordability contexts. Intensive rewilding was favored for recreational settings, while minimal rewilding was preferred when cost and maintenance were foregrounded. Thematic analysis of open-ended definitions further revealed shared understandings of urban rewilding as biodiversity restoration, ecosystem repair, and improved human well-being. These findings highlight the utility of perception-based indicators for capturing public attitudes toward ecological interventions. By integrating visual methods and mixed data, this study provides actionable insights for urban planners and sustainability policymakers seeking to design socially acceptable rewilding strategies grounded in local values. • Visual preferences used as social–ecological indicators of urban rewilding support. • Survey across six U.S. cities reveals scenario-specific rewilding preferences. • Moderate rewilding favored overall; intensive preferred for leisure contexts. • Open-ended definitions highlight links to biodiversity and well-being. • Results offer perception-based indicators for urban ecological planning.