What factors determine the economic value of wetland agroecosystem services in developing countries? A meta-regression approach

Agricultural wetlands or wetland agroecosystems are crucial for sustainable farming practices, particularly in developing countries. These wetlands provide a range of economic and environmental benefits by enhancing the resilience of agricultural systems and conserving natural ecosystems. This study focuses on the economic valuation of ecosystem services in wetland agroecosystems within developing countries. We conducted a systematic review and meta-regression analysis based on 38 selected studies across developing countries to unveil the key factors influencing the economic value of these ecosystem services. The findings indicate that the size of the wetland has a positive correlation with its ecosystem service value, while coastal wetlands hold less economic value compared to inland wetlands. The study also identified other significant factors that impact the value of these services, such as higher food production, climate, disturbance regulation, and existence and bequest values. The analysis suggests that wetland values derived from revealed preference methods were higher than those from stated preference methods. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of population density, urban settings, and Ramsar status in shaping the economic value of ecosystem services in wetland agroecosystems. The results of this study can inform policymakers and conservation practitioners and emphasise the need for additional site-specific valuation studies to enhance understanding and guide effective management practices in wetland agroecosystems of developing countries.