Quantifying the Economic Benefits of Supporting Ecosystem Services: A Case Study of the Sitakunda Botanical Garden and Ecopark, Bangladesh

Jime Roy; Shahidul Islam; Md. Melon; Sayedul Alam; Sujon Chandra Sarker; Shabekun Nahar Tasnim; Nur Nahar Akter

doi:10.36808/if/2026/v152i5/171134

Quantifying the Economic Benefits of Supporting Ecosystem Services: A Case Study of the Sitakunda Botanical Garden and Ecopark, Bangladesh

Authors

Jime Roy Bangladesh Forest Research Institute, Chattogram
Shahidul Islam Bangladesh Forest Research Institute, Chattogram
Md. Melon Bangladesh Forest Research Institute, Chattogram
Sayedul Alam Bangladesh Forest Research Institute, Chattogram
Sujon Chandra Sarker Bangladesh Forest Research Institute, Chattogram
Shabekun Nahar Tasnim Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences, University of Chittagong
Nur Nahar Akter Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences, University of Chittagong

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36808/if/2026/v152i5/171134

Keywords:

Economic valuation, Forest biodiversity, Nutrient recycling, Protected areas, Soil health.

Abstract

This study quantifies the economic value of supporting ecosystem services provided by the Sitakunda Botanical Garden and Ecopark (SBGEP) in Bangladesh. Employing a combination of productivity replacement and direct cost methods, the research assesses the contributions of pollination, nutrient recycling, pest and disease control, forest biodiversity, seed dispersal, and soil nutrition to local livelihoods and ecosystem health. Results indicate that these services collectively contribute BDT 111.70 million (USD 1.18 million) annually to the regional economy. This research underscores the economic significance of protected areas and emphasizes the need for their effective management. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and conservation practitioners seeking to integrate ecosystem services into decision making processes.

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