People value ecosystems for the different contributions that they make to human well-being, both material and non-material.

Non-material contributions, such as those related to identity, sense of place and psychological well-being, have affective, cognitive and sensory dimensions. Although overlooked in ecosystem management and research, the affective and sensory aspects are important for connectedness with nature, human well-being, conservation and environmental justice.

This brief summarizes the main findings of qualitative research in Apurimac (Peru) that explores the affective, cognitive and sensory dimensions of people’s ecosystem experiences and imaginaries.

Understanding the diversity of people’s experiences and imaginaries is important for more equitable and sustainable ecosystem management.

B., Valdivia-Díaz M., 2021. Sensing, feeling, thinking: Why the body, heart and mind are all important in ecosystem management. CIFOR Infobrief, 349. https://doi.org/10.17528/cifor/008295