Valuing ecosystem services provided by land commons in India: implications for research and policy

Abstract Commons provide many ecosystem services that support the livelihoods of billions around world. However, their contribution to people and economy are rarely estimated in economic terms. Here, we estimate land-based commons India, which cover 66.5 million hectares. We conducted a systematic literature review publications between 1990 2020 selected 161 peer-reviewed studies develop an valuation database for India. identified 34 from this database. forest worth $2108 ha −1 yr . Culturable wastelands permanent pastures, other grazing lands $861 each, barren unculturable $196 Using value transfer method, average provided by land India is at $90.5 billion (range $24–192 billion). This broad range reflects status condition those commons. Based on trends decline commons, will $68 2050: $750 can be lost each year over next 30 years. have devastating implications rural populations depend delivery critical services. highlight need use decision-making policy protect sustainably manage