Ecosystem Valuation: Theory, Analytical Methods and Applications

Authors: D. Suresh Kumar & P. Indira Devi
Publisher: Scientific Publishers
Language: English
Edition: 1st Edition, 2022
ISBN: 9789388812245
E-ISBN: 9789388812252
Pages: 247
Cover: Hard Bound

This publication offers a systematic exploration of ecosystem valuation, emphasizing the role of natural resource management in decision-making. The book provides in-depth coverage of valuation techniques and their application in the context of ecosystems. It starts by introducing the concepts of ecosystem services and valuation theories, followed by detailed discussions on the various methods used to assign value to ecosystems, supported by case studies and empirical data.

Designed as a reference for Master’s and Doctoral students, as well as researchers in environmental economics and resource economics, this book covers a range of ecosystem types, including irrigation tanks, watershed ecosystems, forest ecosystems, and eco-tourism. It provides practical insights into the use of economic surplus methods, contingent valuation, travel cost methods, and other valuation approaches.

Table of Contents:

1. Ecosystem Valuation: Concepts and Theoretical Basis

   • Concept of Value and Valuation

   • Ecosystem and Ecosystem Services

   • Theoretical Basis of Valuation

2. Valuation Methods

   • Market Price Valuation

   • Non-Market Valuation

   • Proxy Methods

   • Contingent Valuation Method (CVM)

   • Benefit Transfer

3. Ecosystem Valuation of Irrigation Tanks

   • Multiple Uses and Ecosystem Services

   • Empirical Results and Case Studies

   • Policy Options

4. Valuation of Watershed Ecosystems: Application of Economic Surplus Method

   • Methodology and Data

   • Watershed Development and Field Studies

   • Policy Suggestions

5. Forest Ecosystem Valuations

   • Need and Methods for Forest Valuation

6. Environmental Benefits of Ecotourism: Application of Travel Cost Method

   • Application of Travel Cost Method to Ecotourism

7. Demand and Supply of Ecosystem Services: Application of CVM

   • Ecosystem Services Demand and Supply

   • Application of CVM

8. Demand and Supply of Ecosystem Services: Application of Choice Experiment

   • Ecosystem Services Demand and Supply

   • Application of Choice Experiment

9. Qualitative Techniques for Valuation of Ecosystem Services

10. Summary, Conclusions, and Future Directions

• Synthesis from Different Cases

• Future Directions

Lexicon
References
Index