The Social Relevance of Water Quality and Cultural Ecosystem Services: An Application to a Saline Wetland in an Arid Environment

The deterioration of wetlands and loss of ecosystem services is a consequence of human-induced activities and the effects of climate change. In Spain, this situation is intensified in southern arid and semi-arid regions such as Andalucía, where droughts are particularly intense. From a socioecological perspective, it is essential to enhance the understanding of the social relevance of wetland conservation and its contribution to social well-being. This study focuses on the study of human dimensions of the wetland Laguna Honda, a natural reserve located in the province of Jaén, southern Spain. For that purpose, an economic valuation of restoration and conservation actions was performed. A discrete choice experiment was conducted to 296 inhabitants in Jaén to evaluate their knowledge, perceptions and preferences about the conservation of the natural reserve. Results show that local residents are willing to pay for improving the water quality and increasing knowledge and awareness. These results suggest the need to improve the understanding of local wetlands and their ecosystem services, as well as the implementation of new management and conservation measures keeping in mind the societal preferences.