The Reef ecosystem and the people who use it are strongly interconnected. A way to understand this connection is to consider that humans are a part of, not separate from, nature: a social–ecological system. First Nations peoples view health of the environment and health of people as inextricably linked — healthy Country means healthy people (Section 4.3).
How humans derive wellbeing from nature feeds back into how humans behave towards the environment.8 Human wellbeing can be described in five inter-related themes: healthy, secure, sustainable, cohesive and prosperous.9 Ecosystems play a critical role in underpinning many constituents of human wellbeing (Figure 1.4).
A healthy and functional Reef ecological system provides material and non-material benefits to people that results in wellbeing outcomes. Social heritage values related to aspects of wellbeing are described in Section 4.5.1 as including: access; aesthetics; appreciation, understanding and enjoyment; human health; personal connection; equity (intra- and intergenerational); empowerment; and employment and income. More details about the direct and indirect use aspects of those values can be found in Chapter 5 (Commercial and non-commercial use). Non-use aspects are mostly described in sections of Chapter 4 (Heritage values).
People’s wellbeing derived from benefits can influence their attitudes and values. Ultimately this affects their behaviours and actions towards the Reef to maintain or enhance benefits.8 For example, best practice behaviours and stewardship actions, but also compliance or non-compliance with rules and regulations.
Understanding of the relationships and feedback loop between the Reef’s ecological and social systems is crucial to guide the long-term protection and conservation of the environment, biodiversity and heritage values of the Great Barrer Reef Region and to allow for ecologically sustainable use.
