Estimating the protective value of Taleghan dam’s ecosystem and distinction between used and non-used value using AHP approach

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Master Student of Agricultural Economics, Agriculture and Natural Resources Campus, University of Tehran, Iran.

2 Phd Student of Agricultural Economics, Agriculture and Natural Resources Campus, University of Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Regarding the importance of natural resources in preserving natural ecosystem and human being survival, protecting these resources and preventing their demolition will be necessary. Taleghan Lake, Alborz, is studied o determine the protective value and measuring the willingness of people. Using the AHP approach, this study is different by using and non-using value of the lake. Results from Lagit Model showed that there was 72% decrease in people’s willingness to pay for offered price in lieu of 1% increase in it. Results from the estimation have also estimated the maximum willingness to pay amounting to 41400 rials for each person per month. On the basis of AHP approach 3150 rials and 10350 rials out of 41400 rials have been estimated as used and non-used value, respectively for each person per month. Results from the model for distinguishing between the used and non-used values are indicatives of allocating more amounts for used value compared with non-used value. This can be led to depletion of natural and environmental resources of the lake. Therefore, we have to find some policies in order to create a balance between used and non-used functions in the region.

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