Measuring the economic value of pollination services: principles, evidence and knowledge gaps

Hanley, N., Breeze, T. D. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8929-8354, Ellis, C. and Goulson, D. (2015) Measuring the economic value of pollination services: principles, evidence and knowledge gaps. Ecosystem Services, 14. pp. 124-132. ISSN 2212-0416 doi: 10.1016/j.ecoser.2014.09.013

Abstract/Summary

An increasing degree of attention is being given to the ecosystem services which insect pollinators supply, and the economic value of these services. Recent research suggests that a range of factors are contributing to a global decline in pollination services, which are often used as a “headline” ecosystem service in terms of communicating the concept of ecosystem services, and how this ties peoples׳ well-being to the condition of ecosystems and the biodiversity found therein. Our paper offers a conceptual framework for measuring the economic value of changes in insect pollinator populations, and then reviews what evidence exists on the empirical magnitude of these values (both market and non-market). This allows us to highlight where the largest gaps in knowledge are, where the greatest conceptual and empirical challenges remain, and where research is most needed.