With the increase in demand for landscape restoration and the limited resources available, there is need for economic analysis of landscape restoration to help prioritize investment of the resources. Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) is a commonly applied tool in the economic analysis of landscape restoration, yet its application seems limited and varied. We undertake a review of CBA applications to understand the breadth, depth, and gaps. Of the 2056 studies identified in literature search, only 31 met our predefined criteria. Three studies offered a global perspective, while more than half were conducted in Africa. Only six countries benefit from at least 2 CBA studies, including Brazil, Ethiopia, Kenya, Vietnam, South Africa, and Tanzania. About 60% focus on agroforestry, afforestation, reforestation, and assisted natural regeneration practices. Only 16% covered all cost categories, with opportunity costs being the least covered. Eighty-four percent apply direct use values, while only 16% captured the non-use values. Similarly, lack of reliable data due to predictions and assumptions involved in data generation influenced CBA results. The limited number of eligible studies and the weaknesses identified hereinabove suggest strong need for improvements in both the quantity and quality of CBA to better inform planning, policies, and investments in landscape restoration. © 2020 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3390/land9110465Altmetric score:
Dimensions Citation Count:
Publication year
2020
Authors
Wainaina, P.; Minang, P.A.; Gituku, E.; Duguma, L.
Language
English
Keywords
cost analysis, ecological restoration, landscape conservation, economic impact
Geographic
Brazil, Ethiopia, Kenya, Viet Nam, Republic of South Africa, Tanzania
