Eudaimonic Valuation of Cultural Ecosystem Services

Abstract

Chapter 5 argued that cultural ecosystem services should not be underrated in ESS-assessment. This sub-chapter substantiates this claim by a specific case study as it deals with those cultural services as they originated and established in specific historical periods at the Baltic Coastline. The focus of the research project this sub-chapter is based on recreation, aesthetics, natural heritage, and knowledge systems. The specific features of cultural services (perception, symbols, etc.) are reflected upon. The method and the scope of sources are outlined. There are several findings which highlight the importance of specific cultural services for the Baltic coastlines in past and present times. Findings refer to the different cultural services within tourism, the values of atmospheres, moods, and sceneries in landscape painting, and some recent ideas to provide new ways of access to nature by specific trails. These values are framed with respect to different periods in the history of German nature conservation but also in Germany’s general history. The conclusion points to crucial tasks for coastal management.