Cost-Benefit Analysis of Landscape Restoration: A Stocktake

Priscilla Wainaina, Peter A. Minang, Eunice Gituku and Lalisa Duguma
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Priscilla Wainaina: World Agroforestry Centre, UN Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
Peter A. Minang: World Agroforestry Centre, UN Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
Eunice Gituku: World Agroforestry Centre, UN Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
Lalisa Duguma: World Agroforestry Centre, UN Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi 00100, Kenya

Land, 2020, vol. 9, issue 11, 1-25

Abstract: With the increase in demand for landscape restoration and the limited resources available, there is need for economic analysis of landscape restoration to help prioritize investment of the resources. Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) is a commonly applied tool in the economic analysis of landscape restoration, yet its application seems limited and varied. We undertake a review of CBA applications to understand the breadth, depth, and gaps. Of the 2056 studies identified in literature search, only 31 met our predefined criteria. Three studies offered a global perspective, while more than half were conducted in Africa. Only six countries benefit from at least 2 CBA studies, including Brazil, Ethiopia, Kenya, Vietnam, South Africa, and Tanzania. About 60% focus on agroforestry, afforestation, reforestation, and assisted natural regeneration practices. Only 16% covered all cost categories, with opportunity costs being the least covered. Eighty-four percent apply direct use values, while only 16% captured the non-use values. Similarly, lack of reliable data due to predictions and assumptions involved in data generation influenced CBA results. The limited number of eligible studies and the weaknesses identified hereinabove suggest strong need for improvements in both the quantity and quality of CBA to better inform planning, policies, and investments in landscape restoration.

Keywords: cost-benefit analysis; landscape restoration; global; stocktake (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (8)

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