Emergy-based ecosystem services valuation and classification management applied to China’s grasslands

Qing Yang, Gengyuan Liu, Biagio F. Giannetti, Feni Agostinho, Cecília M.V.B. Almeida and Marco Casazza

Ecosystem Services, 2020, vol. 42, issue C

Abstract: Though grasslands cover one fifth area of global land and provide vital services for humans, half of them are degraded due to human interference and climate change. In this paper we perform evaluations of the delivery of ecosystem services (ES) of grasslands using a systems approach and the technique of emergy accounting. Firstly, we address the issue of anthropocentricity of ES through discussion and analysis using the concept of emergy as contrasted to economic value, i.e. willingness-to-pay. Secondly, we explore from a systems classification of provisioning, regulating, cultural and supporting services. Thirdly, we provide quantitative analysis of the value added (surplus value) to economies by ecosystems. An emergy-based index of classification management of grassland (ICG), is also implemented, together with a non-monetary benefit-cost analysis of grassland ES. It is established that emergy provides an approach to evaluating the contributions ecosystems make to the economy using the idea of net benefit ratio, computed as the emergy cost of providing a service through technology (aka replacement cost) divided by emergy required to sustain ecosystem functions. This study can provide a systematic biophysical accounting method for grassland ESV to implement future sustainable management practices.

Keywords: Grassland ecosystems; Ecosystem services valuation; Emergy; Grasslands classification management (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (6)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:ecoser:v:42:y:2020:i:c:s2212041620300152

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoser.2020.101073

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