The Value of Surface Freshwater Supply Services in the Wetlands of Jilin Province, China

Abstract

Wetlands are ecologically and socioeconomically crucial areas. The application of economic valuation methods could ensure the sustainable utilization of wetlands. Utilizing wetland survey data from Jilin Province, China, representative of the years 2013 and 2017, we assessed the market value of water obtained from wetlands. Simultaneously, we employed the PLUS model to predict changes in wetland areas of different types over the next decade and analyzed their impact on the value of freshwater resource supplies. The results indicate the following points: (1) the area of wetlands decreased from 10,852.84 km2 in 2013 to 10,794.46 km2 in 2017 and that, in 2027, this was projected to further decrease to 10,614.37 km2, with river wetlands experiencing the most substantial decline; (2) the freshwater volumes in 2013 and 2017 were 20.81 × 108 and 20.09 × 108 m3, respectively, representing a 3.58% decrease. The volume for 2027 was projected to further reduce to 19.74 × 108 m3, with lake wetlands contributing the most to water resources and marsh wetlands contributing the least; and (3) the obtained total value of freshwater continuously increased, rising from CNY 8.384 billion in 2013 to CNY 8.642 billion in 2017, and this was projected to further increase to CNY 9.101 billion in 2027. There was regional variation in the value of wetland freshwater resource supplies, with differences in the per unit area and per capita value among administrative units. These findings can facilitate the optimal allocation of freshwater resources in Jilin Province, promoting its sustainable development while ensuring wetland conservation.