An integrative approach to evaluate ecosystem services of mountain lakes using multi-criteria decision analysis
本研究采用多准则决策分析，结合利益相关者参与，评估了意大利南蒂罗尔四个高山湖泊的五种关键生态系统服务，发现可达性高的大型湖泊提供更多服务，但小型偏远湖泊在美学服务上表现突出。
In view of the increasing demand for ecosystem services (ESs) and rising pressures from global change on mountain lakes, sustainable management strategies are increasingly needed. However, integrative assessments of ESs provided by small mountain lakes are lacking. This study adopted an integrative ES valuation perspective, applying multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) to four exemplary mountain lakes in South Tyrol, Italy. With the involvement of stakeholders, we identified five ESs of particular importance: provision of habitat, aesthetics, surface water, recreation, and representation. These ESs were weighted with respect to their perceived importance and quantified based on multi-metric indicators integrating biophysical and socio-cultural/economic aspects. The current ES provision of mountain lakes was then evaluated by applying PROMETHEE II. We showed that the quantity of ESs varied with distinct socio-ecological characteristics. Well accessible and larger lakes currently provide larger amounts of ES in high demand, such as habitat provision, aesthetics, and recreation, but remarkably, smaller and remote lakes also provide notable amounts of ES aesthetics. Our integrative approach provides insights to support sustainable ES management of mountain lakes considering future challenges that are potentially applicable in other regional contexts.