Cultural Ecosystem Services of Grassland Communities: A Case Study of Lubelskie Province

Teresa Wyłupek, Halina Lipińska, Agnieszka Kępkowicz, Kamila Adamczyk-Mucha (), Wojciech Lipiński, Stanisław Franczak and Agnieszka Duniewicz
Additional contact information
Teresa Wyłupek: Department of Grassland Science and Landscaping, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka Street 13, 20950 Lublin, Poland
Halina Lipińska: Department of Grassland Science and Landscaping, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka Street 13, 20950 Lublin, Poland
Agnieszka Kępkowicz: Department of Grassland Science and Landscaping, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka Street 13, 20950 Lublin, Poland
Kamila Adamczyk-Mucha: Department of Grassland Science and Landscaping, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka Street 13, 20950 Lublin, Poland
Wojciech Lipiński: Institute of Agriculture and Human Nutrition, University College of Applied Sciences in Chelm, Pocztowa Street 54, 22-100 Chelm, Poland
Stanisław Franczak: Proteon Pharmaceuticals SA, Tylna Street 3A, 90-364 Łódź, Poland
Agnieszka Duniewicz: Department of Architectural Design and History of Architecture, Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning, Faculty of Architecture, Bialystok University of Technology, Wiejska Street 45A, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 15, 1-23

Abstract: Grassland communities consist primarily of perennial herbaceous species, with grasses forming a dominant or significant component. These ecosystems have been utilised for economic purposes since the earliest periods of human history. In the natural environment, they fulfil numerous critical functions that, despite increasing awareness of climate change, often remain undervalued. Grasslands contribute directly to climate regulation, air purification, soil conservation, flood mitigation, and public health—all of which positively affect the well-being of nearby populations. Moreover, they satisfy higher-order human needs known as “cultural” services, providing aesthetic enjoyment and recreational opportunities. These services, in tangible terms, support the development of rural tourism. The objective of this study was to examine the perception of cultural ecosystem services provided by different types of grassland communities—meadows, pastures, and lawns. The study employed a structured questionnaire to evaluate the perceived significance and functions of these communities. Respondents assessed their aesthetic and recreational value based on land-use type. To quantify these dimensions, the study applies the Recreational and Leisure Attractiveness Index (RLAI), the Aesthetic Attractiveness Index (AAI), ranking methods, and contingent valuation techniques. Based on the respondents’ declared WTP (willingness to pay) and WTA (willingness to accept) values, statistically significant differences in the perceived value of land-use types were identified. Lawns were rated highest in terms of recreational attractiveness, meadows in terms of aesthetics, while pastures achieved the highest economic values. Significant differences were also observed depending on respondents’ place of residence and academic background. The results indicate that the valuation of cultural services encompasses both functional and psychological aspects and should be integrated into local land-use and landscape planning policies.

Keywords: ecosystem services; aesthetic values; grassland; meadow; lawns; pastures (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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