Effects of land use change on ecosystem services in freshwater wetlands in Bacalar, Mexico

Wetlands, such as those in Laguna Bacalar, Mexico, are highly productive and biodiverse ecosystems that provide a wide range of invaluable ecosystem services (ES). Despite their importance, these ecosystems are under significant threat from disturbances such as land-use changes, making them among the most endangered ecosystems worldwide. This study aimed to (1) assess the spatio-temporal variation of ecosystem services in Laguna Bacalar, Mexico, between 1999 and 2021 using medium-resolution satellite imagery from the Landsat sensor; and (2) estimate the monetary value of ES losses attributable to land-use changes by applying a unit value transfer method with global value coefficients based on data from Brander et al. (2024). Twenty-two key ESs were identified and associated with mangroves, inland wetlands, and the hydrological system. A total of 277 hectares of natural ecosystems were lost, leading to a reduction in the total value flow of ecosystem services (ES), which was estimated at 10,411,098 Int$/year over the study period. The loss of inland wetlands is particularly alarming due to their critical role in filtering agrochemicals and organic matter from the watershed. Increasing pressures from human activities, including urbanization and tourism, significantly contribute to the degradation of these ecosystems. This highlights the urgent need for responsible environmental management and the implementation of conservation strategies to protect their functionality and the invaluable ecosystem services they provide to local communities.