Governing Ecosystem Services from Upland Watersheds in Southeast Asia

Abstract

© 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. All rights reserved. This chapter focuses on the institutional and political dimensions of governing ecosystem services from upland watersheds in Southeast Asia. It is organized around four themes: plans, rules, incentives and information. A common approach to managing the complex set of services from upland watersheds is through spatial land-use planning; zoning some areas for biodiversity conservation, watershed protection, forestry, agriculture, tourism or multiple uses. Rules and regulations underpin plans, helping to define rights of access and use of ecosystem services and responsibilities for their management. Market-based instruments or other forms of incentives that reward good management practices are an alternative to spatial planning and regulations. The chapter particularly focuses on payments for ecosystem services and certification schemes. Publishing plans and information for scientific review and consultation is vital to ensure that any relevant policy options are not missed or ignored.