SOCIAL-PSYCHOLOGICAL MECHANISMS DRIVING CARBON SINK MONITORING TECHNOLOGY OPTIMIZATION AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN SANYA MANGROVE ECOSYSTEM CONSERVATION: A MENTAL HEALTH AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE PERSPECTIVE

Abstract Objective This study examines how social-psychological mechanisms optimize carbon sink monitoring technologies and enhance community participation in conserving Sanya’s mangrove ecosystems. Grounded in environmental psychology and behavioral science, it identifies strategies to improve both technological effectiveness and local engagement in blue carbon initiatives while assessing mental health co-benefits including reduced eco-anxiety and enhanced well-being. Subjects and Methods A mixed-methods approach was employed, comprising quantitative surveys with 300 local residents, fishers, and tourism stakeholders to assess environmental attitudes and willingness to participate; experimental trials with 50 participants comparing traditional expert-led monitoring and AI-assisted community-co-designed monitoring incorporating behavioral nudges; and qualitative interviews with 20 key informants exploring psychosocial barriers and motivational drivers. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results Psychological engagement significantly improved with community-co-designed AI tools, increasing participation by 45% compared to traditional methods. Collective efficacy emerged as the strongest predictor of sustained involvement. Mental health benefits were observed, with participants reporting lower eco-anxiety and higher well-being. Primary barriers included technological distrust among older residents and perceived inefficacy related to slow policy feedback. Conclusions Social-psychological mechanisms are critical for optimizing carbon sink technologies and fostering community-driven mangrove protection. Integrating behavioral science through personalized feedback, identity-based messaging, and participatory AI enhances both ecological outcomes and resident well-being. Future efforts should address intergenerational engagement strategies and policy frameworks that reinforce psychological incentives. Acknowledgments The research was supported by: (1) the Hainan Provincial Joint Project of Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City, Grant No: 2021JJLH0055; (2) the Project of Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City, Grant No: SKJC-JYRC-2024-41; (3) the Youth Project of Yazhou Bay Innovation Institute of Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Grant No: 2022CXYQNXM02; (4) the Hainan Tropical Ocean University Talent Recruitment Scientific Research Startup Project, Grant No: RHDRC202207.