Ecological Compensation Standard of a Water-Receiving Area in an Inter-Basin Water Diversion Based on Ecosystem Service Value and Public Willingness: A Case Study of Beijing

Ecological compensation has recently gained significant attention as an economic incentive promoting natural resource management. However, there remain several challenges to its application. A key issue is the lack of a method clearly define standard ecological compensation. This study established accounting methodology for water-receiving area in inter-basin water diversion China. Beijing, major South-to-North Water Diversion Project, was used example application this approach. First, evaluation index ecosystem service value selected, then, emergy theory calculate increment based on characteristics each indicator. The due project calculated be 3.898 billion RMB, while willingness-to-pay by public estimated at 915 million RMB. Therefore, highest compensation, and public’s lower limit final can determined through negotiation between suppliers beneficiaries under leadership relevant governments water-transfer authorities. Thus, aimed provide scientific basis construction diversified mechanisms promote sustainable development region.