A Valuation-Based Approach for Irrigated Agroecosystem Services

Agroecosystems main function is food, fiber and fodder provision. However, other ecosystem services (ES) are provided by these systems, such as the reduction of soil loss or the enjoyment of the landscape. Many of these ES do not take part in the market, but their valuation is important to develop a sustainable management of the system. Valuing ES requires a clear classification of ES and some efforts on the study and clarification of the ES classification has been carried out. Nevertheless, the assessment of non-market benefits requires defining and classifying ES according to the type of ecosystem studied and prioritizing the ES impact on social well-being. Thus, this work aims to develop an adaptation of the existing ES classification for irrigated agroecosystem ES valuation, and verify it through an agricultural stakeholders’ consultation. Their contribution could permit to advance towards agricultural ES valuation. It would allow the implementation of management and policy actions which take into account the importance of agroecosystem ES provision and their impact on human well-being.