Development of a social value evaluation model for coastal wetlands

Abstract

Wetlands serve multiple functions as biological habitats, in climate regulation and resource production, and possess aesthetic and cultural values. Long-term interactions between humans and wetland ecosystems determine their social values; in this regard, the social value evaluation theories and methods are still being explored and improved. In the present study, a coastal wetland social value evaluation model was proposed using quantitative methods. A wetland social value evaluation index system including 2 first-level indicators, 8 s-level indicators, and 22 indicator factors was constructed, the index weights were verified, and the social value of the Tiaozini Wetland was evaluated. The research results show that the social value of the Tiaozini Wetland is divided into eight levels, of which the weights of tourism potential value and market potential value are 0.662 and 0.363, respectively. An imbalance between the tourism potential and market potential values was observed. Along with the societal and cultural development, natural resources should be rationally developed and utilized to realize their social value. The evaluation of Tiaozini's social value is significant for protecting the ecological environment of this coastal wetland. The results index system proposed herein can also be similarly implemented to other coastal wetland regions around the world for promoting their sustainable development.