Digital and Emerging Technologies to Evaluate and Restore Socio-Ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes: A Systematic Review

Socio-Ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes (SEPLS) are multifunctional systems that link biodiversity, cultural heritage, and human well-being. However, they face increasing threats from land-use changes, climate change, and socio-economic marginalization. This study systematically reviews 58 peer-reviewed publications from 2011 to 2025 to examine how digital and emerging technologies contribute to the evaluation and restoration of SEPLS. Six main technology categories are identified: GIS and spatial analysis, remote sensing, AI/machine learning, citizen science, and the Internet of Things. These tools support ecological monitoring, spatial planning, scenario modeling, ecosystem services assessment, and cultural documentation. The analysis reveals persistent challenges related to data quality, technical complexity, limited ground-truthing, and inequitable access to digital resources. Integrating these tools with diverse knowledge systems, inclusive governance, and stakeholder engagement emerges as essential for effective restoration. While digital technologies demonstrate growing potential to enhance restoration planning, their application remains uneven and under-validated, particularly in the Global South. The study concludes that context-sensitive and co-designed innovations, including AI-driven modeling, digital twins, and community-based observatories, can advance equitable and resilient socio-ecological futures and strengthen global efforts toward ecosystem restoration.