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Riverscape and groundwater preservation: a choice experiment
1Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.
Environmental Management
|October 3, 2013
Summary
Residents highly value groundwater quality and are willing to pay for riverscape preservation, including water flow and reforestation, for recreation and biodiversity benefits.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Economics
- Water Resource Management
- Ecosystem Services
Background:
- Agricultural practices contribute to nitrate pollution, impacting water quality.
- European Union directives (Water Framework Directive, Nitrates Directive) mandate water protection.
- Riverscape degradation affects ecological functions and human well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively assess public benefits of riverscape preservation policies.
- To evaluate willingness to pay for reduced groundwater nitrate levels and improved riverscape quality.
- To inform policy decisions for the Serio River basin in Italy.
Main Methods:
- A choice experiment was employed to elicit public preferences.
- Quantitative analysis of stated benefits associated with policy interventions.
- Focus on inhabitants' perceptions of groundwater quality, water flow, and riparian vegetation.
Main Results:
- Public concern is high for groundwater quality due to its link to human health.
- Significant willingness to pay was observed for integrated riverscape improvements (water flow, reforestation).
- Perceived benefits include enhanced recreation, health, and biodiversity preservation.
Conclusions:
- Policy interventions addressing both water quality and riverscape integrity are supported by the public.
- Integrated management strategies maximizing co-benefits are likely to be more effective.
- Understanding public preferences is crucial for successful environmental policy implementation.
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