The economic opportunity of rewilding
4 Paying for the benefits of wilder nature
So far in this module, we have looked at the role of rewilding in supporting the development of local economies in rewilding areas.
Rewilding goes further – it recognises that wild nature on its own has value, and that value should be paid for by those who benefit from it.
The different types of benefits that people can gain from nature are sometimes called ecosystem services.
The idea that people should pay for those services is referred to as the ‘user pays’ principle.
‘User pays’ principle
Ecosystem services are provided by nature and historically have been considered free to use. Today there is a growing movement to consider them in financial transactions so they are paid for, which is nature positive as it contributes to further protecting and restoring the ecosystem.
The ‘user pays’ principle is the idea that the user of the ecosystem service should pay for what they are using.
An example to illustrate the ‘user pays’ principle
A national park may be managing the area in a way that provides beautiful recreational opportunities to visitors.
The ‘user pays’ principle could mean that the visitors could pay:
- An entry free, to access the place they are enjoying.
- Fees to tourism operators or nature guides working in the area.
- Charges for overnight stays, such as accommodation or camping.
Part of these fees should contribute to helping nature recover and maintaining facilities in the national park, so it stays or becomes an even more beautiful place.
