Social values of biodiversity conservation: for the endangered loggerhead turtle and monk seal.

Kaval, P.; Stithou, M.; Scarpa, R.

Abstract

The Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) and the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) are two species on the priority list for conservation in Greece, due to their dwindling populations worldwide. Hence, the issue of estimating willingness-to-pay for their conservation is germane to any protection initiative. Zakynthos Island in Greece has created a marine park for the conservation of such species. We report the results of a survey of visitors and residents of this island who were asked about making one time donations in the form of either a tax for residents or a plane landing fee for tourists. We found that all people were willing-to-pay to protect these species; however, residents were willing-to-pay more than tourists. We then tested whether there was a sequence or ordering effect if the seal questions came before the turtles, as well as if the turtle questions came before the seals. Such effect was found when turtle questions were presented first, but not when seal questions were presented first. Due to the extensive interest, it is recommended that an increase in the airplane landing fee to Zakynthos could be used to contribute towards funds for loggerhead turtle and monk seal protection.

Citation

Kaval, P., Stithou, M., & Scarpa, R. (2009). Social values of biodiversity conservation: for the endangered loggerhead turtle and monk seal. International journal of ecological economics and statistics, 14(P09), 67-76

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: 2009
• Deposit Date: Jan 22, 2015
• Journal: International Journal of Ecological Economics and Statistics
• Print ISSN: 0973-1385
• Electronic ISSN: 0973-7537
• Publisher: Centre for Environment & Socio-Economic Research Publications
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 14
• Issue: P09
• Pages: 67-76
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1413915
• Publisher URL: http://www.ceser.in/ceserp/index.php/ijees/article/view/1909