A possible alternative evaluation method for the non-use and nonmarket values of ecosystem services

Abstract

Monetization of the non-use and nonmarket values of ecosystem services is important especially in the areas of environmental cost-benefit analysis, management and environmental impact assessment. However, the reliability of valuation estimations has been criticized due to the biases that associated with methods like the popular contingent valuation method (CVM). In order to provide alternative valuation results for comparison purpose, we proposed the possibility of using a method that incorporates fact-based costs and contingent preferences for evaluating non-use and nonmarket values, which we referred to as value allotment method (VAM). In this paper, we discussed the economic principles of VAM, introduced the performing procedure, analyzed assumptions and potential biases that associated with the method and compared VAM with CVM through a case study in Guangzhou, China. The case study showed that the VAM gave more conservative estimates than the CVM, which could be a merit since CVM often generates overestimated values. We believe that this method can be used at least as a referential alternative to CVM and might be particularly useful in assessing the non-use and nonmarket values of ecosystem services from human-invested ecosystems, such as restored ecosystems, man-made parks and croplands.