Fig. 2
From: Social-ecological alignment and ecological conditions in coral reefs
Theoretical mechanisms linking social–ecological network closure and ecological conditions. A conceptual diagram illustrating key social processes theoretically supported by social–ecological network closure that may lead to improved ecological conditions in the commons. When direct resource competitors in settings characterized by strong and complex patterns of social–ecological interactions form cooperative communication ties, it lays the foundation for the emergence of trust, a shared vision, and sustained commitments27,29,30 regarding the management of shared resources. Two examples of such commitments include the development of conflict resolution mechanisms and agreement on rules. These social interactions and processes can ultimately lead to improved ecological conditions. It is important to note that this figure is only illustrative of key mechanisms linking social–ecological network closure to ecological conditions and does not include the full range of social–ecological interactions and feedbacks that can affect both ecological and social conditions in any given environmental system
