ECONOMIC VALUATION OF ECOSYSTEM SERVICES: A STUDY APPLIED TO THE TUMUCUMAQUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK, AMAPÁ STATE, BRAZIL

Abstract

The economic valuation of ecosystem services is a support tool for decision-making processes associated with the integral management of natural resources. In this respect, the aim of the present study is to estimate the Total Economic Value (TEV) for ecosystem goods and services offered by the Tumucumaque Mountains National Park (PNMT). The methodology used was based on the application of the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), through a binary logistic regression model for calculating individual Willingness to Pay (WTP), and to obtain the TEV, other methods were used, such as the Avoided Cost Method (ACM), Market Price Method (MPM) and Benefit Transfer Method (BTM). Through a simple stratified probabilistic sampling with proportional allocation, an optimal sample of 167 individuals was obtained from eight municipalities that lie within the confines of the park. The result was a Total Economic Value (TEV) of R$16,062,553,242.47, which corresponds to the Use Value (UV) of R$15,927,316,277.69, divided into Direct Use Value (DUV) R$2,260,299.87 and Indirect Use Value (IUV) R$15,925,055,977.82. As Non-Use Values (NUV), the Existence Value ​​(EV) and Bequest Values ​​(BV) were identified, corresponding to a total of R$135,236,964.79. This estimation aids decision-making processes in conservation units by the bodies and institutions responsible for administration in Amapá State, considered the Brazilian state with the highest preserved area index in the country.