Participatory Modelling in Environmental Decision-Making: The Ria Formosa Natural Park Case Study

Nuno Videira (), Paula Antunes (), Rui Santos () and Sofia Gamito ()
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Nuno Videira: Faculty of Environmental and Marine Sciences, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal
Paula Antunes: Ecoman Centre, Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, New University of Lisbon, Quinta da Torre, 2829-516 Monte da Caparica, Portugal
Rui Santos: Ecoman Centre, Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, New University of Lisbon, Quinta da Torre, 2829-516 Monte da Caparica, Portugal
Sofia Gamito: Faculty of Environmental and Marine Sciences, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal

Journal of Environmental Assessment Policy and Management (JEAPM), 2003, vol. 05, issue 03, 421-447

Abstract: Environmental decision-making generally involves issues of complexity, uncertainty and information feedback. The complexity of environmental problems calls for integrated and multi-disciplinary approaches, which include civil society and stakeholder groups affected by or affecting environmental decisions. This paper presents a participatory modelling framework to facilitate public and stakeholder involvement in environmental decision-making. Results from a case study in the Ria Formosa Natural Park in Portugal illustrate the process of participatory modelling. The use of the System Dynamics modelling methodology facilitates the identification of the fundamental structure underlying the processing of information flows in order to achieve the desired behaviour of environmental decisions. It sets up a collaborative environment for the involvement of stakeholders in the development and experimentation of alternative policy scenarios. Along with the achievement of a simulation model, this approach is likely to foster trust in institutions, promote team learning and increase commitment towards actions.

Keywords: Public participation; environmental decision-making; participatory modelling; system dynamics; Ria Formosa Natural Park (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2003
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (6)

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DOI: 10.1142/S1464333203001371

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