Household decision-making and livelihood capitals in mangrove ecosystems: A systematic review from the Global South

Coastal communities in tropical regions depend heavily on mangrove forests for their livelihoods, making the conservation and sustainable management of these ecosystems a global priority. This study examines how livelihood strategies are shaped in mangrove-dependent communities through a systematic review of international scientific literature. Specifically, we analyze how different forms of capital and their associated assets influence household decision-making. The results show that natural capital underpins key livelihood activities such as fisheries, aquaculture, beekeeping, and timber extraction, although unsustainable use can drive ecosystem degradation and reduce long-term benefits. Human capital plays a dual role: higher levels of education and environmental awareness can support conservation, but may also facilitate access to financial resources that enable land-use change toward more intensive and potentially unsustainable activities. Social capital, reflected in trust, collective action, and community organization, enhances opportunities for environmental management and participation in restoration initiatives. Physical capital supports the development and diversification of livelihood strategies by providing essential infrastructure and tools. Financial capital, particularly access to income and credit, enables households to adopt more profitable and less ecosystem-dependent activities, which can indirectly reduce pressure on mangroves. Overall, the findings highlight that livelihood strategies in mangrove systems are shaped by the interaction of multiple forms of capital, underscoring the need for integrated approaches that align community development with ecosystem conservation.