The application of choice modelling to determine the economic values of non-market goods and services : a national park case study : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Environmental Management at Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand
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Date
2012
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Massey University
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Abstract
National parks and protected areas form the basis of global conservation initiatives and provide a raft of benefits in the form of various consumptive and non-consumptive uses. However, it is extremely difficult to express these economic benefits in monetary terms. The lack of economic values for these areas often results in sub-optimal conservation outcomes. Non-market valuation techniques can be used to estimate monetary values for these key environmental assets. These values are able to provide critical information which can be used to inform management decisions and ensure the implementation of effective conservation policy.
This research applied the choice modelling stated preference technique to estimate the value of non-market goods and services associated with national parks. The study focuses on the ecological and recreational attributes of Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand. The park receives high levels of visitor usage and is well regarded for its unique intrinsic values.
A standard multinomial logit model was used to estimate the non-market values. The results indicate park users were willing to pay an actual cash value for the protection of native bird species, better onsite educational material and less congestion. Respondents also revealed a cash value associated with their preference for retaining the existing accommodation facilities which they felt suited their wilderness experience.
The monetary values revealed in this study can be used to guide future park development, inform resource allocation decisions and ensure adequate conservation financing. Accordingly, it is recommended choice experiments be adopted as standard management practice.
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Non-market value, National parks, Abel Tasman National Park, Economic aspects of conservation, Choice modelling