The study "What is Saba’s Nature Worth?" was started with a seminar on Friday 19th of April. Island Governor, Jonathan Johnson kicked off the seminar on the value of nature for the economy of Saba.
Working together on this study are Saba, the local and national government, Saba Conservation Foundation, the Saba Tourism Bureau, VU University Amsterdam, the University of Wageningen and consultancy company WKICS. The Ministry of Economic Affairs is financing this research, which gives the island in-depth knowledge on the link between their nature and economy. Besides, the WWF-NL and IUCN Netherlands Committee are also supporting this study.
Why
Saba depends on its nature. There are no divers without healthy corals or hikers without nice vegetation around the hiking trails, no fisheries without healthy stocks or protection from erosion without coastal vegetation. If the contribution of nature to the economy of Saba is not included in decision-making, then nature can suffer as a consequence of those decisions. Threats to Saba’s natural beauty can therefore also cause harm to its economic activities. This can eventually mean a loss of many more jobs and money. By placing a financial and social value on the contribution of nature Saba has a better idea what the consequences can be in the future. This research helps to gain that insight.
Workshop and survey among residents and tourists
The project starts with an introduction and discussion about how to value social and economic services of nature. Subsequently two surveys will be conducted to research the perception of nature among residents and tourists of Saba. The results of the study will be used to provide policymakers with the correct information and analysis. Also, it will be researched whether the implementation of certain measures for nature conservation contribute to a sustainable and economically viable Saba.