Progress on the accounting purpose-based ecosystem service valuation methods.

Abstract

The evaluation of ecosystem service value is one of the important steps to improve ecosystem accounting methods and the existing accounting systems, and also one of the key techniques to accelerate the reform of ecological civilization system and to build a beautiful China. However, few literature have systematically distinguished the valuation methods of ecosystem services based on the purpose of valuation, which may lead to overestimation of ecosystem services value from the demand side and inconsistent measurement results among different departments. Based on the purpose of ecosystem accounting, we reviewed the valuation methods of ecosystem services. We started from the connotation and value of ecosystem services, illustrated the classification methods of ecosystem ser-vice value and concluded the approaches of ecosystem service economic units, with the aim to identify the extent to which ecosystem services were involved in system of national accounts (SNA). Then, we systematically sorted out the connotation, applicable scope and data demand of current ecosystem service valuation methods. From the perspective of ecosystem accounting, we discussed the valuation methods applicable to various types of ecosystem services. Finally, we analyzed the deficiency of the current relevant research and proposed some suggestions for the future research.