Fairly efficient, efficiently fair: Lessons from designing and testing payment schemes for ecosystem services in Asia

Background

Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) is defined as a market-based approach yet the authors argue that it cannot be generalized or implements and often suffers due to the commoditization of these services.

Goals & Methods

By summarizing findings from case studies in Indonesia, the Philippines and Nepal, the author seek to provide empirical findings about the implementation and outcomes of PES schemes throughout Asia. They ultimately aim to provide information that can inform future initiatives, particularly in developing countries. 

Conclusions & Takeaways

The authors found that PES schemes have different outcomes of preserving and enhancing ecosystem services. Additionally, they stress the need to balance both fairness and efficiency objectives in PES schemes, in whcih the aim should be a ‘fairly efficient and efficiently fair’ PES.