Abstract:
Kelp are large seaweeds that provide a variety of contributions to humans and the environment.
In South Africa, kelp forests are expanding as a consequence of climate change.
Considering this expansion, assessing local perceptions and values around kelp’s contributions
may assist with the implementation of inclusive management strategies. The lack of
consideration of non-market and non-use values is a gap in kelp valuation studies, with kelp
ecosystems and their use rarely valued outside of classical economic valuation frameworks.
This study sought to fill this research gap, intending to assess local perceptions about varied
value dimensions associated with kelp using a pluralistic valuation approach. Drawing from
a sample population of Recreational Users and/or Coastal Community Members,
Environmental Managers and Conservationists, and Kelp and/or Abalone Industry, the study
investigated perceptions of value towards kelp in the Western Cape region of South Africa.
Results indicate that the perceived value of kelp extends far beyond its economic value as
a harvested resource. Rather, individuals highly value kelp’s ecological and social contributions,
and have strong relational values towards kelp, recognizing its role in enhancing their
quality of life and well-being. While most individuals did not display significant negative
perceptions around kelp, some individuals in the Kelp and/or Abalone Industry indicated
frustrations with kelp management strategies and kelp concession permit allocation processes.
These findings highlight the need to incorporate local perceptions in integrated
marine resource management solutions that recognize the plurality of values not only around
kelp in the Western Cape but marine biodiversity at large.
