Landscape preferences, ecological quality, and biodiversity protection

The loss of biological diversity is a major environmental problem occurring on a global scale. Human-environment researchers have an important role in shaping policy and programs at a local, national, and international level. This article explores human preference for landscapes relative to ecological quality and assesses the relationship between these preferences and land management behavior. A survey of more than 1,000 urban and rural residents of southeastern Australia examined preferences for 36 black and white photographs of native vegetation. There was more commonality than difference between urban and rural preference for different arrays of native vegetation. Preference for Eucalyptus species was higher than preference for non-Eucakyptus species. Preference ratings indicate minimal differences across landscapes with distinct variation in ecological quality. The study suggests that preference for landscapes of relatively high ecological quality is associated with behavior that is protective of this resource.