Assessment and cultural ecosystem service mapping in mountain protected areas – “Pirin” National park

A high degree of naturalness and ecological condition in Pirin National Park's forest ecosystems has been confirmed, with 94.80% assessed as 'good' and 0.44% as 'very good.' The study, using data from the Management Plan, found that these conditions are crucial for providing cultural ecosystem services (CES), particularly 'Cultural heritage,' which is highly valued in mountain protected areas. Notably, Pinus peuce forests within the reserves 'Bayuvi Dupki- Dzhindzhiritsa' and 'Yulen' exhibited the highest capacity to provide CESs, underscoring the importance of conservation regimes. The research highlights the significance of preserving such ecosystems for sustainable resource use and policymaking.

Glushkova, M., Zhiyanski, M., & Yaneva, R. (2023). Assessment and cultural ecosystem service mapping in mountain protected areas – “Pirin” National park. Silva Balcanica, 24(2), 45–57. https://doi.org/10.3897/silvabalcanica.24.e106658