Modeling and mapping the efficiency of protected areas in the conservation of ecosystem services hotspots: The case of Brazilian Pampa

The recognition of ecosystem services (ES) as fundamental elements for human well-being has become a key approach to promoting integrated conservation strategies. However, the intense degradation of natural landscapes requires effective strategies for maintaining different functions associated with ES. One of the strategies adopted by governments is the implementation of Protected Areas (PA). In this study, we evaluate the efficiency of PA in conserving multiple ecosystem functions linked to important ES in the Brazilian Pampa biome through mapping and analysis of ES hotspots. We modeled Water Supply, Sediment Retention, Habitat Quality, and Groundwater Stock due to their direct relationship to the important environmental challenges that the Pampa Biome is facing regarding its ecological integrity. Thus, we evaluated the functions in the 26 PA distributed throughout the Brazilian Pampa and grouped into Integral Protection and Sustainable Use Areas, according to Brazilian legislation (Law No. 9.985/2000). For each PA we calculated the maintenance efficiency of ES individually and collectively (multiple ES). Integral Protection Areas (restricted anthropogenic intervention) areas were, on average, more efficient in maintaining the analyzed ES, although Sustainable Use Areas (anthropogenic intervention permitted under legal recommendations) showed high efficiency in maintaining some specific ES. Our results highlight the need for an integrated approach that considers the multifunctionality of ecosystems to ensure ecosystem conservation and sustainability of the Brazilian Pampa biome.