What is the economic value of coastal and marine ecosystem services? A systematic literature review

This paper examines the economic value of marine and coastal ecosystem services by analyzing 67 studies published in scientific literature. It appraises, collects, and analyzes economic valuations, combining a systematic literature review and meta-analysis regressions. The studies focus on ecosystem services provided by coral reefs, marine waters, and mangrove forests, with recreation, tourism, and fishing being the most valued services. The economic value ranges for provisioning services are between $99 to $1535 per hectare per year, cultural services are between $45 to $2170 per hectare per year, and recreation and tourism services range from $185 to $895 per individual per year. However, the estimates should be used with caution due to the limited number of publications and the use of value transfer techniques. This paper's findings can help develop future research for academics and practitioners communities and inform policy discussions about preserving these valuable ecosystems in the context of the climate crisis.