Assessment of Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES) in three selected CLM Watersheds

Abstract

Land degradation in Ethiopia has led to biodiversity loss and a decline in ecosystem services, affecting smallholder farmers and the economy. Implementing sustainable land management (SLM) interventions is essential for reversing this trend and restoring ecosystem services, particularly in watershed regions. While SLM practices have been gradually implemented, sustaining the flow of ecosystem services to downstream areas requires the implementation of a payment for ecosystem services (PES) scheme. Effective implementation involves identifying marketable ecosystem services, potential buyers, and determining willingness to pay and accept within specific geographical boundaries.