Evaluation of Wetland Ecosystem Services Value in the Minjiang Estuary Wetland National Nature Reserve

Abstract

Wetlands, known as the "kidneys of the Earth," are crucial for their ecological services but are often overexploited due to inadequate protection and scientific assessment. The Minjiang Estuary Wetland National Nature Reserve, a significant ecological barrier, lacks a systematic and monetary evaluation of its ecological service values. This study addresses this gap by developing an assessment model based on relevant standards and guidelines, using multiple methods to ensure scientific accuracy and applicability. The assessment reveals that the wetland's total ecosystem service value is approximately 4.6835 billion yuan. Specifically, the value of ecological regulation services is the highest at 2.548 billion yuan (54.4%), primarily from soil conservation and air purification. The value of product supply services is 2.0816 billion yuan (44.44%), mainly from fishery and freshwater resources. The value of cultural and spiritual services is 54.05168 million yuan (1.16%). These findings provide a theoretical foundation and quantitative basis for evaluating the ecological service values of the Minjiang Estuary Wetland, enhance awareness of ecological protection, inform policy-making for wetland conservation, and promote a balance between economic and ecological benefits.