Biophysical energy analyses of non-market values of the Ebro Delta |
| |
Authors: | Lynette Cardoch John W. Day |
| |
Affiliation: | (1) Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences, Louisiana State University, 70803 Baton Rouge, LA, USA;(2) Coastal Ecology Institute, Louisiana State University, 70803 Baton Rouge, LA, USA;(3) Present address: National Risk Management Research Laboratory, U.S. EPA, 86 TW Alexander Drive (MD-63), Research Triangle Park, 27711, USA |
| |
Abstract: | Non-market values were estimated with energy analysis under four land cover scenarios in the Ebro Delta, Spain. The market value of agriculture, the primary use value, is compared. Conversion of the natural landscape to agricultural fields has resulted in a drop in total annual non-market value from $721 million in the pristine scenario to $11 million in the present scenario. The market value of the agricultural crops has risen over time, from $10 million to almost $52 million, contributing the major portion of the total value of the Delta. However, the rate of return has decreased from the pristine to the present delta, indicating that more energy is required to produce a smaller output. Energy analyses reveal that one form of value—non-market value—is being traded for another—market value. |
| |
Keywords: | Biophysical valuation Economic sustainability Natural energy Net primary productivity Subsidy |
本文献已被 SpringerLink 等数据库收录! |
|