OTHER REQUIREMENTS FOR THE VALUATION STUDY

Resources required for a valuation study: Economic valuation of a wetland is based on quality data, which in turn depends on availability of resources that is required for collecting and analysing the data.  For instance, primary data collection for several valuation surveys may be required, involving several hundred man-days of work, including training of survey staff, interviews, analysis, etc. Field equipment, well-equipped laboratories, computers etc., will be required in the case of hydrological, chemical and biological data collection and analysis.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: Absolute valuation itself is a component of economics, which also requires an understanding of the functions of the wetland, and therefore requires an interdisciplinary approach. Hence, economists, ecologists, hydrologists, environmentalists, agronomists, engineers and other experts should work together as a multidisciplinary team to tackle wetland valuation.

Training programmes: Training programmes along with institutional capacity building are necessary to support staff, surveyors, planners and decision-makers in collecting required information and to ensure the valuation study is effectively used in decision-making process. In this regard economists, planners and decision-makers must be trained in wetland valuation techniques as part of broad-based environmental management courses.

Research and economic valuation studies: The fundamental research effort is badly needed in order to improve wetland valuation techniques. This is especially the case for non-use values and for application in regions where markets are distorted. Economic valuation studies of wetlands should be undertaken to make sound decisions on development options and to set regional and national policies.

Networking: Results of research and experience from application of valuation techniques are rarely dispersed sufficiently. Networking of experts from various areas can serve as a useful medium for exchange of ideas and information. Two types of networking are required: first, a network by which researchers can exchange results and discuss basic principles; and second, a network by which practitioners can swap experiences of applying methods in different wetland types, focusing on the practicalities of finding information, undertaking surveys and assessing the response to questionnaires.