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Ecosystem service valuation studies for decision making

Ecosystem service valuation assigns economic, social, or cultural value to the benefits nature provides, such as coastal protection, fisheries, tourism, carbon storage, and water purification. By translating these benefits into measurable terms, valuation studies help governments and communities understand the true importance of ecosystems. This approach makes the costs of ecosystem degradation visible and supports decisions to invest in conservation and restoration. For islands like Curaçao, Aruba, and St. Martin, valuation can highlight the economic role of coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrasses in protecting coastlines, sustaining livelihoods, and attracting tourism—turning conservation into a smart investment for climate resilience.

Ecosystem valuations can be useful for:

  • Mangroves: Valuation studies help justify investments in mangrove restoration for coastal protection and biodiversity.
  • Coral reefs: Economic valuation of reefs’ storm protection services supports funding for reef adaptation. Strengthening marine park fees to reflect reef value ensures visitor charges capture true economic worth and direct revenue to resilience measures.
  • Dive tourism: Quantifying its economic contribution can attract private sector investment in reef conservation and resilience.

Feasibility & Local Applicability

Valuation studies are already supported by regional research and can be integrated into planning processes. Local calibration is needed to reflect island-specific conditions, and collaboration with sectors such as tourism and fisheries is essential. Engagement from the dive industry and marine park authorities can strengthen implementation, especially when linking valuation to visitor fees or private sector investment.

Co-benefits

Beyond informing policy, valuation promotes ecosystem restoration that delivers multiple benefits: carbon storage, fish nursery habitats, and eco-tourism opportunities. For example, mangrove valuation can enable participation in blue carbon credit markets, while reef valuation can attract insurance and private funding for adaptation measures. These actions reduce storm damage costs and enhance sustainability branding for tourism.

Equity & Vulnerability Considerations

Including fishers, coastal communities, and small tourism operators in valuation and restoration planning ensures fair distribution of benefits. Transparent processes help avoid exclusion and build trust. Linking valuation outcomes to community-based projects can strengthen local resilience and create new income opportunities.

Costs

Medium | The main costs involve research, data collection, and stakeholder engagement. Costs can be shared through partnerships with governments, NGOs, and private sectors, including tourism and insurance industries.

Case studies & Examples

Literature

Adaptation Options Overview