State-of-the art valuation of wetland ecosystem services in Small Island Developing States: A systematic review with an emphasis on future research needs

Abstract

Quality valuation research should adhere to best practice or state-of-the-art guidelines for conducting the research. This study systematically reviewed existing valuation literature for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on wetland ecosystem services. The objective of the study was to identify and assess this valuation literature for compliance with best practice in accordance with contemporary state-of-the-art guidelines. The results showed that the majority of studies were conducted in marine wetland or marine ecosystems, used stated preference methods, and adhered to the majority of the considered guidelines. Less adherence was found regarding temporal considerations, probability sampling and validity and reliability testing for the stated preference methods. For the revealed preference methods there were also a lack of validity and reliability testing. Thus, there is scope for improving valuation studies in SIDS to more effectively contribute to the valuation research agenda and thereby the policy relevance of valuation research in the future.