Spatial Distribution of Forest Ecosystem Service Benefits in Germany: A Multiple Benefit-Transfer Model

We investigate the economic benefits of fundamental forest ecosystem services (FES) for population in Germany at national level monetary terms and estimate spatial distribution these county level. Specifically, we consider timber production, global climate protection due to carbon sequestration, recreation local residents, nature landscape amenity. Combining information from official statistics data valuation studies that are compatible with demand theory, identify drivers FES derive generic functions each services. Using a Geographic Information System, applied conditions Local Administrative Units (municipalities), resulting Benefit Function Transfer estimates service municipality. Afterwards, results aggregated NUTS-3 (counties) mapped. Aggregate annual production society as whole, together exceed ten billion Euro mark—far more than what is reflected market statistics. Scenarios illustrate potential enhancing particularly by restoring biodiversity, measured an avifaunistic indicator. The analysis reveals distinct distributional patterns conclude spatially explicit entire country possible even limited data, which can help policy makers improve institutional setting way use forests become sustainable efficient. After pointing several caveats, finally suggest various possibilities further model development.