Extending the framework of the economic evaluation of erosion control actions in Mediterranean basins

Soil “Ecosystem” Services and Natural Capital: Critical Appraisal of Research on Uncertain Ground

“…Nevertheless, different methods have been developed to associate a cost with soil erosion. One of the simplest approaches, a direct application of the replacement method, consists of estimating the expense of replacing each cubic meter of soil lost through erosion (Almansa et al, 2012). As a recent example of this type of work, Robinson et al (2014) carried out a web survey to find out what price was being asked in various countries for topsoil sold in quantities of one ton or more.…”

“…This figure of 10% is very high, but it is not considered excessive by economists, some of whom apparently thought the value of 3% used in the 2006 Stern report on the economic impacts of climate change was far too low. In their analysis of erosion control actions in Mediterranean basins, Almansa et al (2012) considered discounting rates between 1 and 5%.…”

On the Value of Soil Resources in the Context of Natural Capital and Ecosystem Service Delivery

“…There are a much smaller number of stated preference studies that estimate the value of agricultural soil conservation programs (eg, Colombo et al, 2005 andAlmansa et al, 2012;Rosario-Diaz et al, 2013). It is these methods that cause so much tension and debate in relation to non-market valuation.…”

“…In particular, Almansa et al (2012) give an overview of valuation techniques applied to soil erosion, noting that replacement valuation methods are most widely used, but that newer stated preference techniques offer some advantages when dealing with specific issues. The authors indicate their scepticism when initially applying contingent valuation methods, but conclude that stated preference methods can provide useful information for decision makers, providing a more accurate assessment of the socio-economic returns.…”

Towards a socioeconomic profile for areas vulnerable to soil compaction? A case study in a Mediterranean country

“…In this way, the influence of varying socioeconomic contexts on soil management can be deeply understood (Almansa et al, 2012). A number of models and approaches estimating soil compaction in Europe have been recently proposed (Al-Dousari et al, 2000;Caicedo et al, 2014;Défossez et al, 2003;Goutal et al, 2013;Horn and Fleige, 2003, 2009Lagacherie et al, 2006).…”